“Peace Be Unto You”
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they would believe. They do not realize that they have not only that
evidence, but much more. Many who, like Thomas, wait for all cause
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of doubt to be removed, will never realize their desire. They gradually
become confirmed in unbelief. Those who educate themselves to look
on the dark side, and murmur and complain, know not what they do.
They are sowing the seeds of doubt, and they will have a harvest of
doubt to reap. At a time when faith and confidence are most essential,
many will thus find themselves powerless to hope and believe.
In His treatment of Thomas, Jesus gave a lesson for His followers.
His example shows how we should treat those whose faith is weak, and
who make their doubts prominent. Jesus did not overwhelm Thomas
with reproach, nor did He enter into controversy with him. He revealed
Himself to the doubting one. Thomas had been most unreasonable in
dictating the conditions of his faith, but Jesus, by His generous love
and consideration, broke down all the barriers. Unbelief is seldom
overcome by controversy. It is rather put upon self-defense, and finds
new support and excuse. But let Jesus, in His love and mercy, be
revealed as the crucified Saviour, and from many once unwilling lips
will be heard the acknowledgment of Thomas, “My Lord and my God.”
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