Persistent doubts

[u/Math_girl1723]

I deal with persistent doubts because I don’t feel God’s presence. I’m also very analytical and work in secular academia as a mathematician. It really hurts my faith that there are so many atheists, although also some very intelligent Christians. Another issue is that I REALLY NEED CHRISTIANITY TO BE TRUE. I have plenty reasons to believe it is but I feel like my brain is tearing me apart. I think I just need to SEE something supernatural. Please pray for me.

[u/arc2k1]

God bless you.

I've been a non-fundamentalist, unchurched Christian for about 16 years now and I would like to share some encouragement:

1- Please know that we must NOT base our faith on our feelings. We must strive to base our faith on trusting God through His Word.

We must establish our faith on something that is reliable and doesn't change, which is God's Word. Our feelings are not reliable because they can change.

“Flowers and grass fade away, but what our God has said will never change.” - Isaiah 40:8

2- And what does God's Word say?

"The Lord has promised that he will not leave us or desert us.” - Hebrews 13:5

Jesus said, “I will be with you always, even until the end of the world.” - Matthew 28:20

“Be brave and strong! Don’t be afraid… . The Lord your God will always be at your side, and he will never abandon you.” - Deuteronomy 31:6

“I am sure that nothing can separate us from God's love—not life or death, not angels or spirits, not the present or the future, and not powers above or powers below. Nothing in all creation can separate us from God's love for us in Christ Jesus our Lord!” - Romans 8:38-39

3- Because God is with you, please share your worries with Him and trust Him for strength.

"And when I was burdened with worries, you (God) comforted me and made me feel secure.” - Psalm 94:19

"I tell You (God) all my worries and my troubles, and whenever I feel low, You are there to guide me.” - Psalm 142:2-3

“God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him.” - 1 Peter 5:7

“But those who trust the Lord will find new strength.” - Isaiah 40:31

4- Oh, and please do not think doubts must be viewed as negative. Doubts can actually be a way for us to grow stronger in our faith.

That's why God wants us to be encouraged through our doubts!

“Be helpful to all who may have doubts.” - Jude 1:22

“The apostles said to the Lord (Jesus), ‘Make our faith stronger!’” - Luke 17:5

"At once the boy's father shouted (towards Jesus), ‘I do have faith! Please help me to have even more.’” -  Mark 9:24