John 19-21 Do not disbelieve, but believe.

Now Thomas, one of the Twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “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.” Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe. Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” - John 20:24-29

Thomas had spent several years by Jesus' side watching Him heal the sick, feed the hungry, still the waves, and raise the dead. He was a real live witness to the life of Christ. Yet when faced with the finality of Jesus' crucifixion he had lost all hope. He needed to see to believe. Jesus doesn't rebuke Thomas' unbelief; He meets him where he is and encourages him, allowing him to touch and see. He then calls on Thomas to strengthen his faith with the challenge, "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

I think we can all relate to Thomas. I have seen God work and have experienced victories in my life; yet, my almost knee-jerk response when things in the present look bleak is doubt. I'm thankful God is just as patient with me as He was with Thomas. When I don't see what or how, and choose to resort to doubt, He meets me where I am; and is ready with grace to trust.