“Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe” – Thomas’ words from John 20:25.
He wouldn’t trust the words of his friends. He didn’t even believe this from Jesus; as Jesus spoke ahead of time about his approaching death and resurrection. Thomas didn’t offer a prayer to God for truth. He didn’t make a request of his friends who had been with Jesus. This was Thomas putting his foot down and staking out his position. “I’ve gotta see it and feel it myself.”
It may seem unspiritual or untraditionally Christian, but God likes frankness and honesty. God values faith in people above all, but he also seems to respond to honest doubts and real human expressions of emotion. Is that why David could be named a man after God’s own heart, but also pen these words, “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” (Ps 13:1) and these words, “Why, Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?” (Ps 10:1.) These are not accurate accusations of what God does, but they are expressions of how David felt, and they were directed to God.
King David and Honest Thomas were desperate for God’s presence. They wished to experience him personally. There was no substitute they would accept. In God’s time and in his way he met them both. God meets us in our honesty. Sometimes bringing emotions to people leads to trouble, but honesty with God is good, especially when connecting with God, knowing him more, or finding what is needed in or through him is a part of the plea.
Pastor John Riley