John doubts

1After Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and preach in the towns of Galilee.^a

2When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples 3to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”

4Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: 5The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy^b are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. 6Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” (Matthew 11:1-6)

Thoughts: John was imprisoned.  The one he had told to repent (Herod) threw him there, and there he would die.  John was doubtless sad about this- and his sadness came up in doubt.  He asked Jesus if he was the messiah or not.  Jesus answered with his deeds- which were signs of the breaking in of a new kingdom and new age.  But when you are literally in a hole it is hard to see the light.  When injustice comes, it makes us doubt that God is still at work.  But we are blessed if we still keep on believing- especially when times are difficult.  Do not give up on God when you are in difficulty.  In contrast to this Paul and Silas sang in the prison in Philippi until the prison doors swung open.  

Prayer: Lord, help me to see you at work.  Keep my eyes off of my troubles and doubts and onto your answered prayer and hope.