Overcoming Double Mindedness: Finding Stability in Faith

For a believer, our world-view and perspective of the world around us should be anchored firmly in the truth of God's Word, with its unchangeable values guiding us. Our mindset and thoughts must be directed by Scripture, for it is through God's Word that we are transformed and renewed (Rom 12:2). Although we live in the world, we are not to be influenced by it (Jn 17:16). Yet our sinful nature continues to direct our hearts and desires to a degree, instead of dying to this sinful nature to live a new life in the Spirit that loves and serves God (Col 3:9).

The Problem of Divided Loyalties

We want to love ourselves first and God second, but this is contrary to God's command which is to love Him above all else (Mk 12:30). By allowing the ungodly belief systems and ideas of this world to dilute our faith, we start placing our trust in things outside of God and doubt what He has already done and can do. When our thoughts are not directed by Scripture, we become vulnerable to worldly philosophies that contradict God's truth. The apostle Paul warns, "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ" (Col 2:8).

Without Scripture as our guide, our minds become battlegrounds where conflicting ideas wage war against our faith. We may find ourselves questioning God's goodness, doubting His promises, or embracing values that stand in opposition to His Word. The psalmist understood the importance of having God's Word direct his thoughts, praying, "Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name" (Ps 86:11). An undivided heart is one that is wholly surrendered to God's truth, allowing Scripture to shape every thought and decision.

The Bible states, "…a double minded person is unstable in all they do" (Jas 1:8). Being indecisive, and therefore unreliable, by ever shifting from one opinion or focus of activity to another is a characteristic of their whole way of life, which will never amount to much. A person having this nature is a doubter, struggling with confusion, and risks compromising their thoughts and actions; their loyalties are divided, as they try to be all things to all people, not having the courage of their convictions.

"Respect the Lord and serve Him faithfully" – Joshua 24:14

They are not committed either way, being controlled by their feelings not God's wisdom. They are certain of a thing one minute and doubt the next so their heart is not at peace as they try to serve two masters (Mt 6:24). The uncommitted Jews were challenged, "Choose this day who you will serve…How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him…But as for me and my house we will serve the Lord" (Josh 24:15; 1 Kgs 18:21). In today's context, this is like adding New Age beliefs to what you understand about Jesus.

The transformation of our minds through Scripture is essential for overcoming double-mindedness. Paul exhorts believers, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will" (Rom 12:2). This renewal occurs as we immerse ourselves in God's Word, allowing it to penetrate our thoughts, challenge our assumptions, and redirect our desires toward what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy (Phil 4:8).

When our mindset is directed by Scripture, we develop the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:16). This means thinking as Jesus thought—seeing the world through God's perspective, valuing what He values, and responding to circumstances with faith rather than fear. The psalmist declares, "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you" (Ps 119:11). Storing God's Word in our hearts provides a foundation for decision-making and a shield against the deceptive influences of the world.

Regularly meditate on Scripture to renew your mind and align your thoughts with God's truth

The Path to Wholehearted Commitment

The Bible's directive is, "Draw near to God…Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded" (Jas 4:8). Being wholeheartedly committed to God and His ways, loving Him fully with every part of our being is to be the basis of our discipleship (Ps 16:8; Mk 12:30; Lk 9:23). This commitment requires that we allow Scripture to direct every aspect of our thinking, for as the psalmist writes, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path" (Ps 119:105). When God's Word illuminates our minds, we can walk with confidence and clarity, free from the confusion that comes from trying to reconcile contradictory worldviews.

Jesus Himself demonstrated the power of Scripture-directed thinking when He faced temptation in the wilderness. Each time Satan sought to lead Him astray, Jesus responded with "It is written," grounding His resistance in the authority of God's Word (Mt 4:1-11). This example shows us that Scripture is not merely a collection of ancient writings, but a living weapon for spiritual warfare and a guide for every decision we face. By following Christ's pattern, we can overcome the double-mindedness that plagues so many believers.

We will increasingly become single-minded and devoted to His purposes, rising above trials and opposition, believing God answers prayer as we seek Him in all things and trust Him completely. This will result in greater stability, having a predictable character as we walk with integrity, and a growing confidence, for "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see…" (Heb 11:1). David's prayer, "Give me an undivided heart", reflects his trust (Ps 86:11).

The foundation of our beliefs is to be the Scriptures

Job's faith and trust in God did not alter even when he suffered devastating disasters (Job 1:13-2:10). How would I have responded? Would I have continued to believe that all things are working for my good (Rom 8:28)? His steadfastness demonstrates the power of a mind anchored in truth, regardless of circumstances. When our thoughts are directed by Scripture, we can maintain our faith through trials, knowing that God's character and promises never change.

Living with Conviction

As believers, we should know what God's Word says and consistently live accordingly, regardless of society's changing values. When our mindset is directed by Scripture, we develop convictions that are rooted in eternal truth rather than shifting cultural norms. This enables us to stand firm in our beliefs while engaging respectfully with those who hold different views. The apostle Paul encourages us to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Cor 10:5), ensuring that our thinking aligns with God's revealed truth.

Living with Scripture-directed conviction means being willing to be countercultural when necessary. It means choosing God's ways over popular opinion, even when this invites criticism or misunderstanding. However, this does not mean being rigid or unteachable. We should always remain open to correction and growth, testing everything against the standard of God's Word. In non-essential matters, we may hold different opinions while maintaining unity in the faith, but in all things, our thoughts must be submitted to the authority of Scripture.

Reflection and Application:

Examine areas of your life where you may be wavering between two opinions
Ask God to purify your heart and give you an undivided devotion to Him
Identify worldly influences that may be diluting your faith
Commit to seeking God's wisdom rather than relying on feelings