How to Overcome Spiritual Doubt and Embrace God’s Call to Serve Others Daily
Can I ask you something right from the start? How many of us have felt that little nudge in our hearts, but immediately second-guessed it? I see you nodding. I have been there, too. When we talk about how to overcome spiritual doubt, it’s not just about the big moments with fireworks and fanfare, but often about spiritual rebuilding after setbacks. It’s about the quiet, ordinary days when God feels silent and His call feels bigger than what we think we can handle.
In our recent podcast episode, we talked all about what it really looks like to put aside fear, show up with our gifts, and serve right where God has us, hearing God's voice daily. Sometimes, just reading the phrase “how to overcome spiritual doubt” makes me chuckle a little, because it hints at a step-by-step solution. But friend, you and I both know it’s rarely that simple, especially when finding Christian community for women beyond motherhood roles. Still, I want to show you what I’ve learned in real life through our conversations and my own walk, and maybe you’ll find a little hope for your own story, too, including spiritual self care tips for difficult seasons.
Why Is It Hard to Overcome Spiritual Doubt When Serving?
Let me tell you, I think most of us expect doubt to creep in when we try to step outside our comfort zones. It shows up with questions like, “Am I enough?” or “What if I mess up?” I remember taking on a leadership role for the first time and feeling a pit in my stomach for weeks. Does this sound familiar?
Where Does Spiritual Doubt Come From?
Sometimes it’s insecurity. Sometimes it’s simply not knowing what’s ahead. And honestly, sometimes it comes from caring deeply about doing things right, obey God when obedience feels uncertain. I’ve sat across the table from women in my community who have shared the exact same worries, building Christian community support during adversity. What if I can’t do enough? What if I am not the right fit? These questions come up, no matter how long you’ve been walking with Jesus, dealing with doubt as a Christian. Finding God in Hard Times. We all want to be faithful with our gifts, but our minds can swirl with doubt instead of peace doubt about your calling.
What Makes Us Feel ‘Not Enough’?
It’s normal to feel unqualified, especially if you’re learning about healing from spiritual perfectionism. It can be fear of failing, fear of not knowing the Bible inside and out, or even comparison with others who seem to serve “better” or with more joy. But here’s what I’ve learned – God calls us in spite of all our doubts, not because we somehow checked every box perfectly. And when we ask how to overcome spiritual doubt, it starts with being honest about it, not hiding from it.
What Does the Bible Say About Overcoming Spiritual Doubt?
I love how honest Scripture is about doubt and faith. You see stories of real people who struggled and still said yes to God. One of my favorite verses is Matthew 11:28 (CSB), where Jesus says, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Jesus didn’t say come to me when you finally get it together. He invites us in right where we are, doubts and all.
God Gives Us What We Need
Think about this – many times when I felt the least prepared, that’s when I noticed God making up the difference. I’d step into something new and realize that showing up, with a willing heart, was all He really asked for. You don’t need a theology degree to know how to overcome spiritual doubt. You just need humility and faith to say, “God, here’s what I have – use it.”
- Trust that the gifts He’s given you are intentional
- Remember you don’t have to do everything, just your part
- Pray for help and strength with each step
How Can We Overcome Spiritual Doubt in Everyday Life?
Okay, friend, let’s get personal. I want to share a few things that changed my heart and mind about how to overcome spiritual doubt, especially when I’m not sure I have what it takes.
Start Small, Start Where You Are
Sometimes we think saying yes to God means signing up for the biggest, scariest thing. But what if it just means opening a door, greeting a new face, or praying over another mom in our group? In that recent podcast convo, we reminded each other that serving doesn’t have to be fancy or official. You can serve someone today with a text, a meal, or simply being there.
Stop Comparing, Start Trusting
I used to think my gifts didn’t “count” because they didn’t look like someone else’s. Hospitality, encouragement, administration – these weren’t the flashiest gifts, but they were deeply needed in my community. Learning how to overcome spiritual doubt meant letting go of comparison and starting to trust that God knew what He was doing when He knit me together.
- Notice what comes naturally to you
- Listen to what others affirm in you
- Do the next small thing, even if it feels insignificant
Bring Your Doubts to God First
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve whispered, “God, I’m not sure I can do this.” You can be honest with Him. You don’t have to hide your fears. He already knows. Praying about your feelings is the real way to start. God has a way of turning doubts into opportunities for trust. That’s how you start to learn how to overcome spiritual doubt, one honest prayer at a time.
What Happens When We Say Yes Despite the Doubt?
Here’s the thing. Every time I’ve said yes, even though I was unsure, God showed up. Sometimes in a big way, sometimes quietly - like extra energy to help a friend or wisdom to handle a tough conversation. Over time, serving goes from something you do now and then to part of who you are. Our family, like the one Angela described in the podcast, doesn’t always get it right, but we are learning that using our gifts for others is worth it every single time.
Legacy and Everyday Impact
What would it look like if our homes, churches, and communities were full of people willing to serve in small, faithful ways, even with doubts? The answer to how to overcome spiritual doubt is woven into daily choices. Each time you do that simple thing – making a meal, holding a door, organizing a meeting – you build a little more trust, both in God and in yourself.
Your Gifts Are Meant to Bless Others
When we give, we get to see God move. Sometimes you notice it right away, and sometimes it’s years later. I want my life (and my kids’ lives) to matter in practical ways. I want to know that our community is a little warmer, a little brighter because we chose to serve, even when we weren’t sure how to overcome spiritual doubt.
Practical Ways to Overcome Spiritual Doubt Right Now
Simple Steps You Can Take (Hand to Heart)
- Ask God to show you the needs around you
- Notice your natural strengths and lean into them
- Step into one small act of service today
- Let people know when you feel unsure – there is room for honesty here
- Encourage your kids or friends to serve, even if it’s just holding a door
- Keep your eyes open for those moments when God equips you with exactly what’s needed
Remember, learning how to overcome spiritual doubt isn’t about never feeling afraid or uncertain. It’s about choosing to act anyway because your trust is in God, not your ability. Serving others isn’t always easy or glamorous, but it is absolutely worth it.
And if you need more encouragement or want to hear a story from someone walking this path, go listen to our recent podcast episode. You’ll hear real talk, practical wisdom, and stories that might sound like your own life.
Friend, you are not alone. You have gifts, you matter, and God is with you in every “yes” you give. Let’s keep going - one step at a time.
