A Biblical Warning Against Consulting the Dead

In a world filled with uncertainty, people often seek guidance, comfort, or a glimpse into the future. Some turn to horoscopes, others to psychics, and still others attempt to commune with the departed through mediums or séances. These practices, though sometimes dismissed as harmless curiosity, are far from neutral in the eyes of God. As evangelical Christians, we hold fast to the authority of Scripture as God’s inspired and inerrant word, our ultimate guide for faith and life. The Bible issues a clear and uncompromising warning against consulting the dead, urging us instead to seek the living God and His revealed truth.

In this blog post, we’ll explore two pivotal passages, Isaiah 8:19-20 and 1 Samuel 28, that address this issue head-on. We’ll dig into the original Hebrew language to uncover the depth of these warnings, using the English Standard Version (ESV) to ground our understanding. Along the way, we’ll reflect on what these texts mean for us today, especially in a culture where occult practices are experiencing a resurgence. Let’s journey together into God’s word, seeking His light amidst the darkness.

Isaiah 8:19-20: A Call to Seek God, Not the Dead

The prophet Isaiah ministered during a turbulent time in Judah’s history. The nation faced threats from neighboring powers—first Syria and Israel, and later the looming Assyrian empire. In their fear, some turned to mediums and wizards for answers, hoping to find reassurance or secret knowledge. Into this context, God speaks through Isaiah with a powerful rebuke and redirection:

“And when they say to you, ‘Inquire of the mediums and the necromancers who chirp and mutter,’ should not a people inquire of their God? Should they inquire of the dead on behalf of the living? To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” (Isaiah 8:19-20, ESV)

Unpacking the Hebrew Keywords

To fully grasp the weight of this warning, let’s examine the key Hebrew words and phrases:

Mediums (אוֹב, ov): This term refers to a necromancer—someone who claims to communicate with the dead. In ancient Israel, such practices were explicitly condemned as detestable to God (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). The word ov suggests a hollow, empty source, a stark contrast to the living God.

Necromancers (יִדְּעֹנִי, yidde’oni): Often translated as “wizards” or “knowing ones,” this term describes those who profess special insight, typically through occult means. It implies a false claim to wisdom, one that bypasses God’s true revelation.

Chirp (צָפַף, tsafaf): This verb means to peep or whisper, mimicking the eerie sounds mediums made during their rituals. It paints a picture of deception, as if the dead could speak through these faint, unnatural noises.

Mutter (הָגָה, hagah): Meaning to murmur or speak in a low voice, this word reinforces the secretive, shadowy nature of these practices. It stands in opposition to the clear, authoritative voice of God.

Isaiah poses two piercing rhetorical questions: “Should not a people inquire of their God?” and “Should they inquire of the dead on behalf of the living?” The Hebrew word for God here is אֱלֹהִים (Elohim), a majestic name that underscores His sovereignty and power. Why would anyone turn to the dead, powerless, and silent, when the living God, Elohim, is ready to guide His people?

The prophet then redirects the people to the true source of wisdom: “To the law and to the testimony!”

Law (תּוֹרָה, torah): This word means instruction or teaching, often referring to God’s commandments and will. It’s the foundation of life and truth for God’s people.

Testimony (תְּעוּדָה, te’udah): Signifying witness or attestation, this likely points to God’s prophetic revelations or the covenant He made with Israel. Together, torah and te’udah emphasize the sufficiency of God’s word.

Finally, Isaiah delivers a sobering verdict: those who reject this word “have no light in them.” The Hebrew word for light, אוֹר (or), symbolizes truth, guidance, and life itself. To abandon God’s word for the occult is to plunge into spiritual darkness, devoid of hope or direction.

The Message for Judah and Us

In Judah’s crisis, the temptation to consult mediums was real, but Isaiah exposes its futility. Why seek the dead, who cannot speak or save, when the living God offers wisdom and strength? This passage challenges us today as well. When we face trouble—whether personal struggles, national crises, or spiritual doubts—shouldn’t we turn to our God? If we can’t rely on Him in our distress, what good is our faith?

Moreover, the question “Should they inquire of the dead on behalf of the living?” cuts to the heart of practices like praying to saints or seeking messages from the departed. The Bible offers no basis for such actions; instead, it calls us to the living God who speaks through His living word.

1 Samuel 28: Saul’s Descent into Darkness

If Isaiah 8:19-20 provides the principle, 1 Samuel 28 offers a vivid illustration. This chapter recounts the tragic story of King Saul, who, in a moment of desperation, consults a medium to summon the spirit of the prophet Samuel. Let’s explore this narrative and its key Hebrew terms.

The Context

Saul, once chosen by God to lead Israel, had fallen into disobedience. He had expelled mediums and necromancers from the land (1 Samuel 28:3), in line with God’s law, but now faced a dire situation. The Philistine army was amassed against him, and God was silent—no answers came through prophets or dreams (1 Samuel 28:6). Instead of repenting, Saul sought out a medium at Endor.

The text reads:

“Then Saul said to his servants, ‘Seek out for me a woman who is a medium, that I may go to her and inquire of her.’ … So Saul disguised himself … and he said, ‘Divine for me by a spirit and bring up for me whomever I shall name to you.’” (1 Samuel 28:7-8, ESV)

Key Hebrew Words

Medium (אוֹב, ov): As in Isaiah, this term denotes a necromancer. Here, it’s paired with בַּעֲלַת אוֹב (ba’alat ov), meaning “mistress of necromancy,” highlighting the woman’s expertise in this forbidden art.

Inquire (דָּרַשׁ, darash): This verb means to seek or ask, often used for seeking God’s will (e.g., Deuteronomy 4:29). Saul’s use of darash for the dead instead of God reveals his spiritual bankruptcy.

Spirit (אוֹב, ov): Contextually, this refers to the spirit or ghost summoned, purportedly Samuel. Some debate whether this was truly Samuel or a demonic deception, but the text’s focus is on Saul’s disobedience, not the identity of the spirit.

The medium complies, and a figure appears, delivering a chilling message:

“Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up? … The Lord has turned from you and become your enemy … Tomorrow you and your sons shall be with me.” (1 Samuel 28:15-19, ESV)

Saul’s fate is sealed—death awaits him and his sons, and Israel will fall to the Philistines.

Lessons from Saul’s Failure

Saul’s story is a cautionary tale. In his fear and isolation, he turned to the very practices he once opposed, bypassing God for a forbidden source. The result? Not guidance or comfort, but judgment. The Hebrew word darash underscores the irony: Saul sought (darash) the dead when he should have sought (darash) God. His actions mirror the warning of Isaiah 8:19-20, and the outcome proves there is “no light” in such pursuits.

This narrative challenges us to examine our own responses to despair. Do we trust God even when He seems silent, or do we seek shortcuts through illegitimate means? Saul’s end reminds us that consulting the dead leads not to life, but to deeper darkness.

Scripture’s Authority and Christ’s Sufficiency

As Believers, we affirm the Bible as God’s infallible word, our sole authority for doctrine and practice. Isaiah 8:19-20 and 1 Samuel 28 reinforce this conviction. God has given us His torah and te’udah—His law and testimony—sufficient for every need. To turn elsewhere is to reject His provision and invite deception.

Moreover, we believe in a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Jesus declares, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6, ESV), offering direct access to the Father. The Holy Spirit indwells us, guiding us into all truth (John 16:13). Why seek the dead when the living Savior intercedes for us (Hebrews 7:25)?

The Bible labels occult practices—consulting mediums, necromancy, and the like—as “detestable” (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). They not only disobey God but also expose us to spiritual danger, as Satan masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). Our call is to trust Scripture and Christ alone.

Resisting the Occult’s Allure

Today, occult practices are on the rise, often cloaked as entertainment or self-discovery. Ouija boards, psychic hotlines, and TV shows about speaking to the dead draw millions. Even within some Christian circles, there is a temptation to blend biblical faith with mysticism or ancestor worship. Yet Scripture leaves no room for compromise.

Consider the modern parallels to Judah and Saul. Like Judah, we face uncertainties—economic instability, global conflicts, personal crises—that might tempt us to seek answers beyond God. Like Saul, we might feel God’s silence and grow desperate. But the response must be the same: “To the law and to the testimony!” God’s word remains a “lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105, ESV).

We must also be discerning. The Apostle John urges, “Test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1, ESV). Any practice that bypasses God’s authority or seeks hidden knowledge apart from Him fails that test.

Choosing Light Over Darkness

The Biblical warning against consulting the dead is unequivocal. Isaiah 8:19-20 calls us to seek God’s light—His torah and te’udah—rather than the darkness of the occult. Saul’s tragic end in 1 Samuel 28 illustrates the peril of ignoring this command. As evangelicals, we’re summoned to stand firm on Scripture, reject forbidden practices, and trust in Christ’s sufficiency.

So, where do you turn in times of need? If you’ve dabbled in occult practices—whether out of curiosity or desperation—I urge you to repent. Confess it to God, renounce those ties, and seek His forgiveness (1 John 1:9). Then, immerse yourself in His word, letting the Holy Spirit guide you.

For those who’ve never ventured there, stay vigilant. Share this truth with others, warning them of the dangers of the occult and pointing them to the living God. Let’s be like the Bereans, searching the Scriptures daily (Acts 17:11), and live as children of light in a dark world.

How to Love Someone that You Disagree With and is Hard to Love

Everywhere we turn these days, there is an opportunity to take offense. It seems that overnight, our world has become more digitized than ever. At the same time, our country has grown increasingly politicized. Unless you live in complete isolation, devoid of any interaction with others online or in person, you are bound to encounter people with whom you disagree, and often, the matter of contention sparks strong emotions.

As Christians, we are not called to argue every topic or broadcast our stances as statuses on social media. Instead, we are called to love others and be peacemakers. The Bible instructs us, “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14, ESV). But how do we live this out with someone we strongly disagree with?

Scripture provides the answer. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (ESV), we read a profound description of love:

“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

Reading about love is one thing; putting it into action is another. Below are five biblical ways to love those with whom we disagree, each grounded in Scripture and enriched with practical steps to help us reflect Christ in a divided world.

Listen: The Art of Understanding

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19, ESV).

We cannot claim to show love if we do not first listen to what others have to say. The Greek word for “listen” in this verse is akouō, which means to hear with understanding or to comprehend. It’s not just about letting sound waves hit our ears; it’s about grasping the meaning behind the words. This kind of listening requires us to set aside our agendas and biases.

Listen to Understand, Not to Argue

Too often, we listen to rebut rather than understand. We formulate counterarguments before the other person has finished speaking. Proverbs 18:13 (ESV) warns against this: “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.” The Hebrew word for “hears” here is shama, implying discernment and attention. When we interrupt or jump to conclusions, we dishonor the speaker and miss an opportunity to show love.

Jesus modeled this beautifully in His encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:7-26). Despite cultural and religious divides, He listened to her story, engaged her questions, and spoke truth in a way that met her where she was. He didn’t dismiss her; He dignified her by listening.

Look for Common Ground

When someone shares a passionate opinion, we should listen with our mind, heart, and spirit. Our goal isn’t to pick apart their argument but to find points of connection. This doesn’t mean abandoning our convictions—it means recognizing shared humanity. Romans 12:9-10 (ESV) urges us, “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” Listening sincerely honors the other person.

Understanding the heart behind an opinion is also key. Strong views often stem from deep convictions or past experiences. When we listen for intent, we uncover the “why” behind their words, fostering empathy and building bridges.

Practical Application

Practice Active Listening: Paraphrase what they say to confirm understanding, e.g., “What I hear you saying is… Is that right?”

Avoid Interrupting: Let them finish their thoughts, showing patience and respect.

Listen for Emotions: Notice if they’re speaking from fear, hurt, or frustration, and respond with compassion.

Be Humble: Embracing a Teachable Spirit

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3, ESV).

Humility is the willingness to admit we might not always be right. The Greek word for “humility” here is tapeinophrosynē, meaning lowliness of mind or modesty. It stands in stark contrast to pride, which fuels division and defensiveness.

The Danger of Pride

Pride blinds us to our faults and hinders reconciliation. It demands to be right at the cost of relationships. Humility, however, opens us to others’ perspectives and allows us to grow. Proverbs 9:7-10 (ESV) contrasts two responses to correction:
“Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury. Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.”

The Hebrew word for “scoffer” is lêṣ, describing someone who mocks and resists correction. The “wise man” (ḥākām), however, welcomes it. When criticized, do we lash out like a scoffer or listen like the wise? Our response reveals our heart.

Biblical Examples of Humility

The prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32) humbled himself, returning home to receive grace. Paul, once a persecutor, humbled himself before God and became a vessel for the gospel (Acts 9:1-19). Humility paves the way for restoration and growth.

Practical Application

Admit When You’re Wrong: Acknowledge mistakes to build trust.

Seek Feedback: Ask others for their input on your views or actions.

Resist Defensiveness: Pause and reflect on criticism rather than reacting.

Lament with the Brokenhearted: The Power of Empathy

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18, ESV).

Sometimes, love means being present with those who hurt, even if we don’t share their perspective. The Hebrew phrase šābar lēb (“brokenhearted”) paints a picture of a heart shattered by grief. God draws near to such pain, and we must follow His example.

Empathy in Action

Empathy isn’t agreement—it’s sharing in another’s feelings. Jesus wept with Mary and Martha over Lazarus’ death (John 11:33-35), despite knowing He’d raise him. His tears showed that He entered their sorrow. We may disagree with someone’s views, but we can still mourn with them in their pain.

Encouraging Words

Ephesians 4:29 (ESV) says, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” The Greek word oikodomē, meaning “building up,” refers to edification. Our words can lift others toward hope.

Practical Application

Be Present: Sit with someone in their pain without rushing to fix it.

Validate Feelings: Say, “I see this is really hard for you.”

Offer Hope: Share a Scripture, such as Psalm 34:18, to point them to God.

Transforming Hearts Through Intercession

“But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:44-45, ESV).

Praying for those we disagree with is a divine command. The Greek word agapaō (“love”) denotes selfless, sacrificial love—God’s love for us, which we extend even to enemies.

The Power of Prayer

Prayer may not always change others, but it transforms us. It replaces bitterness with peace. Proverbs 15:1-2 (ESV) advises, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” The Hebrew word rak (“soft”) suggests gentleness, diffusing tension.

How to Pray

For Their Well-Being: Ask God to bless and draw them near.

For Wisdom: Seek guidance in how to respond.

For Unity: Pray for common ground in Christ.

Practical Application

Set a Time: Pray daily for those you disagree with.

Use Scripture: Pray Ephesians 1:17 over them.

Pray Together: If possible, join others in intercession.

Rejoice in the Truth Anchored in God’s Word

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32, ESV).

When efforts to love yield strife, we rest in God’s truth. The Greek word alētheia (“truth”) signifies reality—Jesus Himself (John 14:6). Rejoicing in Him keeps us steady.

Balancing Truth and Love

Ephesians 4:15 (ESV) calls us to speak “the truth in love.” We stand firm without wielding truth as a club, trusting the Spirit to work.

An Eternal Perspective

Ephesians 4:31-32 (ESV) urges, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Our hope is their salvation, not their agreement.

Practical Application

Focus on the Gospel: Share Christ’s love above all.

Celebrate Progress: Rejoice in small steps of understanding.

Stay in Scripture: Anchor yourself in God’s Word.

The Choice Is Yours

Disagreements are inevitable, but our response is a choice. Colossians 3:12-14 (ESV) calls us to “clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience… And over all these virtues put on love.” Will you choose love, reflecting Christ in a divided world?

Battling Discouragement and Doubt

It’s a dark, damp cell. The air is thick with the smell of mildew and despair. John the Baptist, once a fiery preacher in the wilderness, now sits in chains, his spirit as confined as his body. He’s heard the rumors—stories of miracles, of a man who might be the long-awaited Messiah. But doubt gnaws at him. Is this Jesus truly the one, or has he been mistaken? In his darkest hour, John sends his disciples to ask Jesus directly: “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” (Luke 7:20, ESV).

Jesus’ response is not a simple yes or no. Instead, He points to the evidence: “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me” (Luke 7:22-23, ESV).

In this moment, Jesus doesn’t just affirm His identity; He offers a lifeline to a soul adrift in doubt. John, like many of us, needed reassurance that God’s promises were still true, even when circumstances screamed otherwise. His story is a powerful reminder that even the greatest among us can falter, and yet, God’s grace meets us in our weakness. If you’re battling a dark season of discouragement or doubt, this passage holds hope for you too. Let’s explore it together.

A Prophet in Prison

John the Baptist was no ordinary man. Jesus Himself declared, “Among those born of women none is greater than John” (Luke 7:28, ESV). He was the forerunner, the one who prepared the way for the Messiah, baptizing Jesus and witnessing the Spirit descend upon Him (Luke 3:21-22). Yet, here he is, imprisoned by Herod, facing imminent execution, and wrestling with uncertainty.

Why did John doubt? It may be the stark contrast between his expectations and his reality. He had preached about the coming kingdom, proclaiming, “His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire” (Luke 3:17, ESV). He expected a Messiah who would overthrow oppressors and establish justice. But now, languishing in prison, he saw no signs of political deliverance. Jesus was healing the sick and preaching to the poor, but where was the fire and judgment John had foretold?

John’s doubt wasn’t a sign of weak faith but a human response to unmet expectations. He needed confirmation that his life’s work hadn’t been in vain. And in his vulnerability, he reached out to Jesus, seeking truth. If you’ve ever felt let down by God—waiting for a breakthrough that hasn’t come—you’re not alone. John’s story shows us that doubt doesn’t disqualify us from God’s love; it’s an invitation to seek Him more deeply.

Exegesis of Luke 7:22-23: Jesus’ Answer

Let’s unpack Jesus’ response to John’s disciples. He doesn’t rebuke John for his doubt; instead, He provides evidence that aligns with Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah.

Luke 7:22 – The Evidence of the Messiah

“Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them.” (Luke 7:22, ESV)

Each of these miracles fulfills specific promises from the Old Testament, proving Jesus’ messianic identity:

The blind receive their sight: Isaiah 35:5 says, “Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened.” The Greek word typhloi (τυφλοὶ) refers to physical blindness but can also symbolize spiritual blindness. Jesus’ healing opens both physical and spiritual eyes to His kingdom.

The lame walk: Isaiah 35:6 promises, “Then shall the lame man leap like a deer.” Choloi (χωλοὶ) means those crippled or unable to walk. Their healing signifies restored mobility and, metaphorically, the ability to walk in righteousness.

Lepers are cleansed: While not explicitly prophesied, cleansing leproi (λεπροὶ)—outcasts deemed unclean—demonstrates Jesus’ authority over disease and His power to restore people to community and worship.

The deaf hear: Isaiah 35:5 also says, “The ears of the deaf unstopped.” Kophoi (κωφοὶ) can mean deaf or mute, and their healing symbolizes ears opened to God’s word and tongues freed to proclaim it.

The dead are raised: Isaiah 26:19 declares, “Your dead shall live; their bodies shall rise.” Nekroi (νεκροὶ) signifies physical death, and raising them is the ultimate sign of Jesus’ authority over life, foreshadowing His resurrection.

The poor have good news preached to them: Isaiah 61:1 states, “The Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor.” Ptochoi (πτωχοὶ) are the destitute and marginalized. Preaching to them reveals the inclusive heart of Jesus’ ministry.

By listing these miracles, Jesus essentially says, “Look at the evidence. I am fulfilling the prophecies that point to the Messiah.” He invites John—and us—to see beyond present suffering and recognize the kingdom’s arrival in acts of mercy and power.

Luke 7:23 – The Blessing of Trust

“And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.” (Luke 7:23, ESV)

This statement is pivotal. The Greek word for “offended” is skandalizō (σκανδαλισθῇ), meaning to stumble or be trapped, derived from the action of triggering a bird trap. Jesus acknowledges that His ministry might cause some to stumble because it defies expectations. He came not as a conquering king but as a suffering servant, healing the broken and preaching to the lowly. This was a scandal to many, possibly even John.

Yet, Jesus pronounces a blessing (makarios, meaning happy or fortunate) on those who don’t stumble—who accept Him as He is, not as they wish Him to be. This beatitude calls us to trust God’s plan, even when it confounds us.

Key Words in the Original Language

To deepen our understanding, let’s explore these Greek terms further:

Typhloi (τυφλοὶ) – “The blind”: Beyond physical sight, it suggests those blind to God’s truth. Jesus’ miracles reveal both physical and spiritual light.

Choloi (χωλοὶ) – “The lame”: Healing them restores not just legs but life’s purpose, mirroring our spiritual renewal in Christ.

Leproi (λεπροὶ) – “Lepers”: Their cleansing reflects Jesus’ power to make us clean, welcoming us into His family.

Kophoi (κωφοὶ) – “The deaf”: Opened ears and loosened tongues equip us to hear and share the gospel.

Nekroi (νεκροὶ) – “The dead”: Raising them points to eternal life, the hope we cling to in dark times.

Ptochoi (πτωχοὶ) – “The poor”: The good news lifts the lowly, showing God’s heart for the overlooked.

Skandalizō (σκανδαλισθῇ) – “Offended”: It warns against letting unmet expectations trap us into rejecting Jesus.

These words aren’t just historical details; they carry spiritual weight, revealing Jesus’ mission and our response to it.

Our Seasons of Doubt

John’s story resonates because we, too, face dark seasons. Illness, loss, unmet desires, or unanswered prayers can shake our faith. Like John, we may wonder if God is truly at work. I’ve had moments like this—praying for a loved one’s healing that didn’t come, or waiting for a job that never materialized. The silence felt deafening, the doubt overwhelming.

In these times, Jesus’ response to John offers a roadmap:

Look to the Evidence: Reflect on God’s past faithfulness. I recall a time when God provided a friend’s encouragement just when I needed it most—a small miracle, but real. What’s your evidence?

Trust the Prophecies: Scripture promises God works all things for good (Romans 8:28). Even when I can’t see it, I can trust His word.

Accept God’s Methods: Jesus didn’t free John from prison, but He affirmed His mission. God’s answers may not match my plans, but they’re perfect (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Beware of Offense: It’s tempting to grow bitter when God doesn’t act as I expect. But Jesus blesses those who trust Him anyway.

Unmet Expectations are the Root of Discouragement

Unmet expectations often fuel our doubts. We pray for deliverance, but the trial lingers. We seek justice, but evil persists. John likely felt this tension, expecting a liberator, not a healer. Jesus’ miracles were glorious, but they weren’t the revolution John envisioned.

Yet, Jesus gently corrects this view. The kingdom was advancing through compassion, not conquest. For us, this means rethinking our expectations. God’s work might be quiet—a peace that steadies us, a community that supports us, a strength to endure. These are His miracles, too.

Encouragement for the Weary

If you’re weary, take heart. John, the greatest among men, wrestled with doubt, and Jesus met him with grace. Here’s how to press on:

Pray Honestly: Share your fears with Jesus. He can handle it. Psalm 62:8 says, “Pour out your heart before him.”

Recount God’s Faithfulness: List times He’s come through—big or small. It builds faith for today.

Dive into Scripture: Stories like Joseph’s (Genesis 37-50) or David’s (1 Samuel 16-31) show God’s perfect timing.

Lean on Community: Share your burden with others. They can lift you when you’re weak (Galatians 6:2).

Serve Others: Helping someone else can shift your focus and renew your spirit.

Trusting in the Dark

John never left that cell, but his faith was rewarded with a sense of assurance. He learned God’s plan was bigger than his expectations. For us, the message echoes: in the dark, look to God’s faithfulness, trust His promises, and embrace His ways. “Blessed is the one who is not offended by me.”

If you’re waiting, step back and recount God’s goodness. Declare that He’s working, even now. He moves when you pray, and He cherishes your faith. Believe it. Embrace it. It’s true.

Prayer: Lord, in our doubt and discouragement, remind us of Your faithfulness. Open our eyes to Your work, strengthen our trust, and keep us from stumbling. May we find peace in Your perfect plan. Amen.