Spiritual, Not Religious

The hosts of Spiritual, Not Religious return from a two-month hiatus with a Thanksgiving-week conversation about being grateful for doubt. Shawn, James, and Mollie swap stories from their own faith upbringings—where questions were sometimes discouraged—and contrast that with the safe, curious spaces they now try to create for young and emerging adults. Drawing on biblical examples (Thomas, Peter, Job, the psalmists, Jacob, Abraham, Isaiah) and Kathleen Norris’ reminder that belief is a process rather than a product, they explore how honest questions, spiritual wrestling, and even anger at God can deepen rather than destroy faith. They talk about doubt as relational risk, a way of giving your heart—not just your head—to God, and encourage listeners to find trusted companions who can hold their questions without shame. The episode closes with the simple prayer, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief,” as a blessing for anyone navigating seasons of uncertainty.