John 20:19-31

Jesus provides encouragement for belief.  Three times in this passage (John 20:19-31) he approaches the disciples saying “Peace.”   He also offers proof of his wounds both to the large group and later, individually to Thomas.  He doesn’t stand back and watch them flounder.  He doesn’t even make them come to him.  He proactively seeks them to bolster their faith.  He does more than just understand and accept their struggles.  He initiates encouragement.

Jesus still encourages his followers today.  He moves and works when his people come together corporately (worship services, church).  He actively calls people to go into vocational ministry to lead his body of believers.  He works through authors like Lee Strobel with The Case for Christ and Josh McDowell with Evidence that Demands a Verdict.  And many, many others.  He doesn’t expect you to flail on your own.  He anticipates the struggles you will have on the road of belief, and he still initiates encouragement today.  If you have trouble seeing how he initiates encouragement for your struggles with questions, ask him for wisdom so that you can see where he is active in your life.