Believe despite ...

Believers expect certainty. But the truth is, the Bible does not work like that. There are a lot of topics that are not explicitly black or white. That is just the way it is.

And many believers then develop specific theological "understanding" to clarify many things. All in varying shapes and forms. And still, it is too far of a stretch to say we know for certain about everything.

But it is okay. I do not think certainty is the goal. Personal relationship with God helps me believe despite the uncertainty.

"Faith is not needed where certainty exists. ... If we possess certainty, then we hold knowledge, and 'to know' something means we no longer need faith.

Faith exists only when we can't conclusively demonstrate or prove the object of our trust."

~ Gary E. Parker, "The Gift of Doubt"