Deconstructing your faith is something that is happening in faith communities everywhere — and you may have experienced it yourself as well! It can be a deeply personal and transformative experience, often marked by confusion, pain, and isolation.
It can be the result of a range of experiences from hurtful encounters within a faith community, doctrinal challenges, personal tragedies, or simply an inner prompting to reevaluate long-held beliefs you’re not so sure about anymore.
What I want you to know more than anything is that deconstruction will not serve you well if you stop there. You must reconstruct what you have deconstructed and do so from a Biblical perspective.
Here are 5 steps to consider after deconstructing:
- Give Yourself Grace: Understand that faith journeys are deeply personal. It's okay to have doubts, questions, and to change your beliefs. Many biblical figures, like David, Job, and Jeremiah, grappled with God in times of distress. It's a part of growth and can eventually lead to a more profound understanding of God. But that’s the key…it should lead you closer (not further away) to God.
- Engage with Scripture: Begin by re-reading the Bible without the lens of previous interpretations or dogma. This might mean starting with the Gospels to refamiliarize yourself with the teachings and character of Jesus, or delving into Psalms to reconnect with the raw, emotional aspect of faith. Use study tools to deepen your understanding of the original context and languages. Ask God to reveal to you what He wants you to see.
- Connect with a Supportive Community: Seek out a community or small group that understands the journey of deconstruction and reconstruction. These might be local groups, online forums, or even individual mentors. Surrounding yourself with empathetic people who've been on a similar journey and come out stronger can provide the necessary support and perspective. Remember, the New Testament church was built on the foundation of fellowship and mutual edification.
- Prayer and Meditation: Reconnect with God through personal prayer and meditation. Remember that communication with God is two-way; while you speak, also take moments of silence to listen. Consider journaling as a way to process and record your spiritual journey.
- Embrace a Humble Posture of Learning: As you journey through reconstruction, it's essential to approach faith with humility and an open heart. Recognize that no one has all the answers, and that it's okay to be in a position of learning and growth. Seek answers to your questions and be open to learning — however, know what Biblical truths are black and white and stand on those convictions as you reconstruct.
Remember that spiritual growth is a continuous journey. Whether you're deconstructing, reconstructing, or somewhere in between, the pursuit of truth, understanding, and a closer relationship with God remains the ultimate goal. Keep seeking, keep questioning, and trust that God is with you every step of the way.
In it with you,
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