Curious Christian

The problem with overly doctrinaire understandings of faith is that they often leave little room for inquiry or doubt. Faith becomes rigid, and any questioning of beliefs or practices is viewed as a sign of spiritual weakness or a “faith crisis.” This mindset discourages curiosity and creates an environment where doubts are feared, rather than seen as a natural part of spiritual growth. People might feel forced to choose between blind adherence or abandoning their faith altogether.

However, when faith is understood more relationally—as entrusting oneself to God and Jesus—questions and doubts take on a different role. Rather than being threats to belief, they become invitations to deeper engagement with the mystery of God. Wrestling with difficult questions about life, theology, or scripture can strengthen faith because it pushes believers to seek more profound understanding. Like Jacob wrestling with God in the Bible, the struggle itself is transformative, leading to a more resilient, mature faith. It acknowledges that faith is not static but a dynamic journey, where moments of doubt can serve as catalysts for growth rather than signs of failure.

This perspective fosters a faith that is adaptable and capable of withstanding life’s challenges. It opens the door for a more authentic relationship with God, where trust is built through both certainty and uncertainty. Rather than fearing questions, this approach embraces them as essential steps in a lifelong process of learning and spiritual deepening.