growing an unstable faith

Just a (somewhat) short thought for today, and old thought of mine but a new one for here...

You ever gone whitewater rafting? Skydiving? Found yourself momentarily out of control on a ski slope? Or generally been caught in a unexpected situation where you had to think on your feet? Those can be scary moments and we typically find our minds racing faster than normal. We might get an adrenaline rush from the experience that is brought on by the fear inherent in the moment. However, after we make it through unscathed, we are able to look back and realize that we are now better because of the experience. The next time we are faced with the same activity or situation, we don't find ourselves mentally scrambling quite so frantically. The fear doesn't take over as much of the experience and instead we can enjoy new aspects we never noticed before. Take skiing for example, yes those who know me well know this is something near and dear to my heart. The first time you learn to ski there is the fear of going too fast, not knowing how to turn or stop effectively, and a myriad of other concerns. As you get better and gain more experience you tend to stop being concerned with stopping, turning, or speed and instead concentrate on reading the terrain or maybe enjoying the views as you make your way down the trails. Maybe you start noticing the interactions that take place in your joints, limbs, boots, and skis as they perform the fluid mechanics that make up your skiing. You slowly benefit from those struggling times when you venture into unknown territory. However, just because you have experience doesn't mean that new or novice things can't shock you from time to time (like having a edge slip out from under you on some particularly slick ice, or the danger and excitement of skiing through the trees).

I think faith is like experience in those examples. No one ever doubts that you are constantly gaining new experiences, but some people tend to see faith as something of a more static nature. You have faith or you don't; you have a strong faith or you are losing/struggling with faith. I believe that when we struggle with our faith, question our faith, doubt our faith, that we utlimately come out better for the effort. Just because we struggle with faith doesn't mean we are losing faith, but rather giving up the struggle would be the loss. Coming out of the struggle makes your stronger, gives you renewed hope and belief in your faith, yourself, and God. I've told many people that I am proud to be referred to as a struggling Christian, because to me there is no better compliment. By struggling with my faith, I keep it active, ever renewed, and close to my heart.