By Minister Sonnie Robinson (May 2025)

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering where your faith really stands—or even questioning whether you have faith at all—you’re not alone. So many of us wrestle with those quiet doubts, especially when life throws us into the unexpected.

Here’s what I want you to know: Faith is a journey, and like any journey, it comes in phases. There are seasons when your faith feels bold and unshakable… and then there are moments when it feels small, fragile, or even missing. That doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re growing. 

Don’t be discouraged. Keep showing up. Keep choosing to believe, even if it’s just a whisper of a prayer some days. Keep claiming your faith—because the more you trust Him, the stronger that faith will become.

Phase 1 – Curious but Not Committed

This is where the journey begins. Maybe you’ve started to wonder about God—who He is, and what role He might play in your life. Something inside you senses there’s more to life than just going through the motions, but you’re not sure what that “more” is or where to find it.  You might see God as a distant power or a force behind nature. You try to live a good life and do the right things—but faith still feels like a mystery. You’ve got questions, and you’re exploring. You’re open, even hopeful… but not quite ready to go all in with Jesus just yet. And that’s okay—this is where the conversation begins.

Phase 2 – From Questions to Connection

Now things are starting to shift. You’re learning more about who God really is, and His presence doesn’t feel quite so distant anymore. You’re beginning to feel like there’s a relationship forming—not just a religion to follow.  You’re finding that growth happens better when you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve joined a small group, started reading Scripture more intentionally, or opened up in prayer. Your faith in Jesus is becoming more real, more personal. You’re still figuring things out, but now you’re moving forward with purpose.

Phase 3 – Rooted and Real

This is the phase where faith becomes part of your everyday life. It’s no longer just something you think about—it’s something you live. You’re rooted in God’s truth, and you’re starting to see how your relationship with Him shapes your choices, your relationships, and how you see the world.  You’re not just growing for your own sake anymore—you want to help others grow too. Maybe you’re mentoring someone, serving in your church, or simply encouraging others through your example. Your faith is real, active, and deeply woven into who you are.

Phase 4 – Faith in the Wilderness

This is the hard part of the journey. Maybe things didn’t turn out the way you thought they would. The faith practices that once came easily feel dry, and you’re wrestling with doubts or questions you never expected.  You might feel alone or spiritually stuck—but you’re not. This wilderness phase is where deeper trust is built. It’s where faith is refined, not in spite of the struggle, but through it. You’re learning that God is still with you—even in the silence, even in the questions.

Phase 5 – Faith in Full Bloom

Now your faith has deep roots. It’s not perfect, but it’s steady—and it’s been shaped by both joy and hardship. You have rhythms and habits that keep you grounded in your relationship with God, and you understand why you hold the beliefs you do.  Your faith isn’t just private anymore—it shows up in how you love others, how you lead, and how you live. You feel a sense of purpose, and you’re deeply in tune with God’s heart. This isn’t just surviving faith—it’s thriving faith.

Phase 6 – Eyes on Eternity

This phase brings a quiet, peaceful confidence. You’ve walked with God long enough to know He’s faithful, and your heart is more focused on eternal things than temporary ones.  Life feels simpler now— not in the sense of being easy, but in knowing what truly matters. You’re living with purpose, listening for God’s voice, and ready to go wherever He leads. You’re not striving anymore—you’re resting in Him, with your heart set on what’s coming next: eternity with Jesus.