We live in a world of the seen, the visible. Touch, taste, smell, hearing and sight all give us a sense of this world we live in. Yet it is the unseen that guides us — our conscience, our emotions, our thoughts deep within our being. Our mind directs our actions, our beliefs.
Hebrews 11:6 tells us: “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him (NIV).” Ultimately we must acknowledge the unseen, feel the presence of God, know that he is in our midst. We must take that step of faith and earnestly seek him. Yet doubts can persist.
In John 20:24-29 we read about Thomas doubting Jesus has risen from the dead. The disciples tell Thomas, “We have seen the Lord (verse 25).” Yet Thomas’ doubts persist and he replies, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe (25).” A week later Thomas is with the disciples when Jesus again stands among them. Jesus tells Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe (27).”
Because Thomas saw Jesus in the flesh, he replied to Jesus, “My Lord and my God (28)!” It will be the same for everyone someday when we stand before Jesus. Romans 14:10-11 tells us that one day we will all stand before God’s judgement seat where there will be no doubt. Then “‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God (verse 11).” Jesus told Thomas, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed (John 20:29).”
© 2019 CGThelen
140 Character Christian 
Thank you for this post. Thank God that we follow a PERSON not a faith. Jesus Christ has come so that we may have an intimate relationship with God the Father through Him. For all those who must SEE to believe God does indeed send Grace. At the CROSS, His shed blood now makes all the ‘unseen’ as near as the very breath we breathe. Thank our God for ALL He is.
Well said. I like your line about following a person not a faith. Praise God we can have a close relationship with Jesus. Thanks for the comment. Blessings.
You have captured the amazing faith that Jesus brings forward in each Christian, to believe in the inseen. Very powerful!
Praise God for his Spirit that strengthens us and enables us to do things that we cannot do on our own. Truly amazing.
And for those who must see to believe, God offers grace, as Jesus did for Thomas. We serve a great and almighty God!
That’s a great point. Thanks.
Yes, as my daughter used to say, “You can bend your knees now or get your knees broken later,” but every knee will bow – including the devil’s.
Your daughter speaks truth.
Amen!!
Wonderful and powerful post. He is real!
Yes, he is real! Praise God that he continues to pursue us.