“O unbelieving and perverse generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me.” Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed from that moment. Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” He replied, ”Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:17-20 (NIV)
In most cases, perplexity arises in any given situation because of our beliefs . . . should I say unbelief. It may be difficult to accept this fact, but the individual is confused . . . not the situation. The confusion results from our perception and understanding of the character and power of faith.
Our beliefs prepare us for life’s subsequent circumstances and issues. The Lord’s disciples were totally unprepared for an emergency, because they believed in miraculous help ONLY when Jesus was present. And he was not there.
Note that when Jesus did arrive, he chided them for their unbelief. And in answer to their question, he explained that their faith was weak but would become powerful when properly prepared through fasting and prayer. It is neither faith’s size nor quantity that is important, but the exercise of one’s faith that moves mountains. In other words, the smallest speck of faith is sufficient to remove the situation’s mountain, but only if we believe that and act upon our belief. Remember, faith is both hope and action.
Jesus taught us: “All things are possible with God” (Mt. 19:26; Mk. 10:27) and “for those who believe” (Mk. 9:23). He also said, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, nothing will be impossible for you.” Perhaps, we need some prayer and fasting to realign the possibilities and give power to our belief. Belief must get out of our heads and hearts, and get into our actions.
Dear Father, thank you for the key to possibility. Empower us in 2009 to exercise our faith as we act on our beliefs. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today as you act on your possibility,