In a world where fitting in is often more important than standing out, questioning your beliefs can feel like a risky move. But as Ivette Smith shows in her book Cracks in the Foundation: Dealing with Doubt (in your Faith), asking tough questions is not just okay—it’s necessary for growth. Her book encourages us to rethink the stigma around doubt and see it as an important part of understanding our faith.

Many of us grow up being told that certain beliefs shouldn’t be questioned. We’re taught that asking “why” can be dangerous or even wrong. But Smith challenges this idea by showing that faith and doubt can actually work together. She writes, “Faith is not a prison of certainty but a garden where questions are seeds.” This powerful idea reminds us that questioning what we believe doesn’t mean we’re losing faith—it means we’re making it stronger.

One reason doubt can feel scary is because it’s often misunderstood. People might think questioning dogma means turning away from faith, but Smith explains that it’s actually the opposite. By discovering the beliefs we’ve always held, we make sure they truly reflect who we are. This process can lead to a deeper, more meaningful connection with our spirituality.

Of course, asking hard questions can be tough. It might bring up feelings of guilt or fear, especially if we’re part of a community where doubt isn’t accepted. Smith talks about how some people worry they’ll be judged for their questions or even pushed away from their community. But she reminds us, “True faith welcomes questions because it has nothing to hide.” When communities create safe spaces where people can explore their doubts, everyone benefits. It builds trust, honesty, and stronger relationships.

Smith also inspects how history shows us the power of questioning. In many cases, big changes and progress have started because someone dared to ask, “Is this really right?” The Reformation, for example, happened because people challenged the way things were being done in the church. Movements like the Enlightenment encouraged people to think critically and explore new ideas. These examples show us that asking questions isn’t about tearing things down—it’s about building something better.

Another important part of Smith’s book is how doubt can make us more understanding of others. When we question our own beliefs, we realize how complicated and personal faith can be. This can help us connect with people who have different views, creating more empathy and less judgment. As Smith puts it, “When we embrace our questions, we open our hearts to the questions of others.”

The fear of being judged is often what stops people from speaking up about their doubts. But Smith’s work reassures us that it’s okay to question. By normalizing doubt, we create a culture where people feel safe to observe their beliefs without fear. This not only helps individuals grow but also strengthens communities by encouraging open and honest conversations.

Doubt also encourages creativity and exploration in how we approach faith. By questioning traditional teachings, individuals can discover fresh perspectives and adapt their beliefs to align more closely with their values and experiences. Smith argues that doubt can act as a spark for new ideas and better ways of understanding the world around us. Instead of clinging to rigid frameworks, embracing doubt allows us to innovate and personalize our faith journeys.

Another aspect Smith highlights is the role doubt plays in resilience. People who confront their uncertainties often emerge stronger, with a faith that is more flexible and adaptive. They are better equipped to handle life’s challenges because they’ve faced and worked through their own spiritual struggles. This process of grappling with doubt builds inner strength and a deeper sense of purpose.

Smith’s message also applies beyond religion. In life, whether it’s our career, relationships, or personal values, questioning what we’ve always accepted can lead to growth and new opportunities. She encourages readers to embrace doubt as a tool for self-discovery, reminding us that it’s okay to change our minds as we learn and grow.

In the end, Smith’s message is clear: questioning dogma is not something to be afraid of. It’s a way to grow, to learn, and to build a faith that truly feels like your own. Doubt isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of courage. And it’s through that courage that we find deeper connections with ourselves, our beliefs, and the people around us.

For anyone who feels alone in their doubts, Smith’s book is a comforting reminder that questions are a natural part of faith. They are not a detour from the path but an important part of the journey. So don’t be afraid to ask, to seek, and to grow. Your questions matter, and they can lead you to a faith that is more honest, meaningful, and true to who you are.