Don't Give In to Doubt — Carol McLeod Ministries

A Note from Carol: One of the greatest joys of my ministry is sharing voices that inspire and uplift with both passion and purpose. Today, I’m honored to introduce you to Tracie Peterson—a beloved author, storyteller, and woman of steadfast faith. With more than 100 novels to her name, Tracie weaves powerful tales of hope, redemption, and God’s unfailing love. Through historical fiction rich with biblical truth, she reminds us that no matter the time or place, God's hand is always at work. Her stories don’t just entertain—they encourage the heart and point readers to Jesus.

God has a way of meeting us exactly where we are, no matter how low or high. Yet, there are times when our valley experiences are so daunting and full of sorrows, and God seems strangely absent. We stumble around doing our best to navigate the path our life has taken and find ourselves overwhelmed with struggles and frustrations. Why would God allow this to happen to me? Why do bad things happen to Christians?

Sometimes the darkness overshadows everything, and we find ourselves ready to give up and give in to the engulfing gloom. I’ve been there myself. In fact, I don’t know anyone who hasn’t endured this in some form or another. Satan works hard to present us with problems and issues that cause us to doubt God. His very first encounter with mankind was to stir doubt. In Genesis, he asks Eve, “Did God really say…”

Doubt is the precursor to despair and despair often leads us to places that we should never go. If you find yourself there today, please know you are not alone. Not only are a great many people struggling with similar issues and problems, but God has promised that He will never leave you, nor forsake you. You will NEVER be alone if you’ve put your faith in God.

To me that is one of the most reassuring attributes of God. The hope of His consistency – His faithfulness. He is truly the only constant in our lives. People will fail us, jobs will be taken away, money will fail to satisfy. All the world and its promises will fall by the wayside. Only God and His promises are eternal. There is great peace in that knowledge and hope in the promise of His dependability.

I sometimes weary of hearing people say, “God won’t give you more than you can handle.” That’s simply not true. The sorrows and despairs of my life offer proof of just how untrue that is. I can’t handle the death of loved ones. I can’t handle child abuse. I can’t handle drug addiction. I can’t handle watching my children suffer from choices they’ve made. There is a great deal I face on a daily basis that I cannot handle. The comfort I take, however, is knowing that I don’t ever have to handle those things on my own. God is my Deliverer.

What we need to remember and say is, “God won’t give you more than HE can handle.”

The Bible tells us that we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. The battle – every single battle we face, has already been won. God has already seen it and made provision for it. We have only to rest in Him and let Him take charge. There is such peace and comfort in that.

The weariness of our trials and the problems of this world need never overtake us. God has already made a way. He will light up the darkest of valleys. He will carry you through the deepest waters. You are His precious child, and He will never leave you, nor forsake you.

As you read this, I know you may be reflecting on other pressing matters. Things that have come out of left field to overtake you, to batter and beat you down. You may not have any idea how you’re going to make it through. You may be contemplating just giving up. Let me encourage you today to look to God for strength and comfort. He has never failed to do exactly as He said He would do, and He isn’t going to start just because of you.

One of the best things you can do for yourself is to spend time in prayer and praise. Take your worries and concerns to the Lord in prayer, even if the only words you can say are, “Please, help me.” God isn’t looking for eloquence, but rather sincerity.

Then spend time in praise. Praise God in songs or simply speak the praise He so richly deserves. It’s hard to remain discouraged when praising God. Look at the good around you – even the smallest, seemingly unimportant thing. Praise Him for His goodness and mercy. Praise Him for never leaving you alone. Praise Him for his love.

Open your Bible and read examples of God’s faithfulness and love. Remind yourself who God is – what His attributes are and how they play a role in your life. For example:

God is love – as a loving Father I can be assured that His love for me is eternal.
God is faithful – as such He will remain constant and true to His promises.
God is powerful – there is nothing that can overtake Him or change His ability to act.
God is true – there is no lie found in Him and therefore we can trust His words.

The list goes on and on, but sometimes it’s helpful to write them down for yourself – to remind yourself exactly who God is to you.

Romans 8:38 and 39 say this:

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NIV)

NOTHING can separate you from the love of God. Nothing.

Don’t give in to doubt. Find your source of strength in God who has promised to be your constant companion. Reclaim your joy in Him.

Discussing Faith, Suicide, and Love with Tracie Peterson

In today’s engaging conversation, Carol McLeod interviews author Tracie Peterson, exploring her faith journey, the importance of storytelling, and the challenges of doubt. Tracie shares her insights on the significance of the Bible, the role of church community, and the need for grace in spiritual growth. They also discuss the sensitive topic of suicide, particularly in the context of faith, and how Tracie’s new book, 'A Constant Love,' addresses this issue while offering hope and healing. Listen in!

Connect with Tracie and order A Constant Love at https://traciepetersonbooks.com/books...

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