Faith and Doubt

If you have searched for faith, you have likely found doubt as well. I know this has been my experience. Having doubt can feel shameful or a little bit frightening. But I have come to believe that doubt is spiritually healthy. Acknowledging my doubts helps me unearth new insights and questions.

Rev. Sam Trumbore, in his blog post “Faith…in Doubt?”, addresses doubt as an integral part of faith development. Trumbore explains that because Unitarian Universalism welcomes diverse theological approaches, we frequently encounter new ideas and new questions. These ideas come from other people who challenge us with their unique perspectives and beliefs. Trumbore urges readers to “learn from each other” and be “open minded” towards those with differing religious and spiritual ideas.

We can listen and reflect on new ideas about faith because we do not have to fear doubt. Doubts can help us develop a richer and more solid faith.

Trumbore concludes:

“So doubt is not the enemy of faith but its friend. The faith we need is in the evolutionary process of consciousness as it expands and grows… The faith we need is that every single part of the whole has value, and that includes you, me and every being on this planet.”

This afternoon, I also listed to Rev. Jenny Rankin’s “A Sermon on Faith.” It is amazing. An eloquent speaker, Rankin explores many aspects of faith, including the relationship between faith and doubt. Please listen by clicking below.