“Pastor, do you ever doubt?” I was sitting across the table from a young mother who had serious doubts about the Christian faith. I tried my best to answer her questions about the Bible, heaven/hell, religion, etc., until she asked if I ever have second thoughts about my faith.

After admitting that I do in my weaker moments, I explained an idea that often brought me comfort. If Jesus died for me, he wouldn’t lie to me. That sentence is worth writing again—If Jesus died for me, he wouldn’t lie to me. If Jesus came into this world to suffer for me when I was nothing but a hostile sinner, why in the world wouldn’t he tell me the truth now that I am his friend? I can understand how selfish, manipulative men might use religion to control me, use me, and gain something from me. But I cannot understand why a liar would suffer in my place. That just doesn’t make sense. Which is why it helps me deal with my doubts.

There are some hard things to believe in the Bible. You might struggle with trusting in the creation account, with the virgin birth, or with the existence of hell. When these tough teachings challenge your faith, repeat the words in the title of this devotion.

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). If you ever have doubts about the gospels, remember the gospel. It’s the greatest proof that God is always telling us the truth.