Growing in Faith: Empowered by Jesus to Move Mountains

How Jesus Empowered His Disciples to Grow in Faith

Have you ever felt the need for your faith to be strengthened? Have you longed for a deeper, more vibrant trust in God? If so, you are not alone. Even the disciples, who spent years with Jesus, recognized the importance of faith and sought His help in growing it.

In Luke 17:5–10, we see the disciples approaching Jesus with a request: "Increase our faith!" Their desire for a greater measure of faith is relatable. They knew that with stronger faith, they could accomplish great things for the kingdom of God.

The Power of God, Not the Quantity of Faith

In response to their plea, Jesus imparts wisdom that can revolutionize our understanding of faith. He tells them, "If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it would obey you" (Luke 17:6).

Jesus uses the analogy of a mustard seed, known for its small size, to illustrate a profound truth. He redirects their focus from the quantity of their faith to the power of God. It's not about how much faith they have, but rather the object of their faith.

Imagine a vast mulberry tree towering before you. It seems impossible to uproot and transplant it into the sea. But Jesus reveals that even a tiny seed of faith, when placed in the mighty hands of God, can accomplish the impossible. He encourages His disciples—and us—to trust in the power of God rather than becoming fixated on the size of our faith.

This truth is relevant to us today in 2023 and will continue to be relevant in the future. No matter the year, the power of God remains constant. Whether it's 2023 or a hundred years from now, our faith can rest in the unchanging character and abilities of our mighty God.

Faith as a Growing Seed

Jesus further illuminates the growth of faith by comparing it to a mustard seed. In Matthew 17:20, He describes faith as being "like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth."

Let's pause for a moment and consider the remarkable growth of a mustard seed. Initially, it appears insignificant, almost inconsequential. But when planted in fertile soil, it begins to grow. It gradually develops into a large tree, providing shelter and sustenance for birds.

Similarly, our faith starts small, but it has the potential to grow into something substantial and impactful. As we nurture and cultivate our faith through prayer, studying God's Word, and fellowship with other believers, it flourishes and becomes a source of strength and encouragement to others.

So, if you find yourself desiring greater faith, take heart. Just as a mustard seed can grow into a towering tree, your faith can mature and flourish. Trust in God's faithfulness to nurture and develop your faith as you seek Him and abide in His Word.

Faith that Moves Mountains

In Matthew 17:20, Jesus goes on to say, "If you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you." Here, Jesus presents another awe-inspiring image—faith that moves mountains.

Mountains are symbols of obstacles, challenges, and impossibilities. They represent the seemingly insurmountable difficulties we encounter in life. Yet, Jesus assures us that with even the tiniest measure of faith, we can command those mountains to move.

Now, let's bring this truth into the present context of 2023. What mountains are before you today? What obstacles are hindering your progress or causing doubt? Whatever they may be, Jesus' words hold true—they can be moved through faith.

But how do we exercise this mountain-moving faith? It begins with fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author, and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). As we surrender our fears, doubts, and limitations to Him, we allow the power of God to work through us.

Remember, it's not about the size of our faith, but rather the object of our faith. When our faith is firmly anchored in the unchanging character and might of God, mountains tremble and obstacles crumble.

The Parable of the Mustard Seed

Jesus often used parables to teach deep spiritual truths. In Mark 4:30–32, Jesus shares the Parable of the Mustard Seed, emphasizing the growth and impact of faith:

"With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, yet when it is sown, it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade."

This parable reinforces the idea that faith, though initially small, can produce significant results. Just as the mustard seed grows into a tree, the kingdom of God expands through the faith and obedience of His people.

As we trust in God's power and step out in faith, we become vessels through which His kingdom advances. Our seemingly small acts of obedience and faithfulness have the potential to impact lives and bring about transformation in our communities.

Faith that Overcomes Doubt

Throughout the Gospels, we encounter individuals who wrestled with doubts and uncertainties. One such person is Thomas, famously known as "Doubting Thomas." After Jesus' resurrection, Thomas expressed his skepticism, stating that he would not believe unless he saw and touched Jesus' wounds (John 20:25).

In response, Jesus appeared to Thomas and invited him to see and touch His scars. Thomas, overwhelmed by the reality of Christ's resurrection, confessed, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). In that moment, Thomas's doubt transformed into unshakable faith.

Thomas' story serves as a powerful reminder that Jesus understands our doubts and meets us where we are. He invites us to seek Him, ask Him questions, and explore the depths of our faith. As we encounter Jesus personally, our doubts can be transformed into unwavering belief.

So, if you find yourself grappling with doubt or uncertainty in 2023 or beyond, take heart. Jesus is not intimidated by your questions or skepticism. He longs to reveal Himself to you and strengthen your faith.

Practical Steps to Grow in Faith

Now that we understand the power and potential of faith, let's explore some practical steps we can take to strengthen and cultivate it:

1. Seek God's Word

The Bible is a treasure trove of promises, encouragements, and truths that strengthen our faith. Set aside time each day to read, study, and meditate on God's Word. Allow it to shape your thinking and anchor your faith in His unchanging character.

2. Pray

Prayer is a powerful means of deepening our relationship with God and growing in faith. Take time to pour out your heart to Him, express your desires, and seek His guidance. As you witness God's faithfulness in answering your prayers, your faith will be strengthened.

3. Surround Yourself with Believers

Christian community plays a crucial role in our spiritual growth. Connect with fellow believers who can support, encourage, and challenge you in your faith journey. Together, you can spur one another on to greater faith and obedience.

4. Step Out in Obedience

Faith is not merely intellectual assent; it requires action. Be willing to step out in obedience to God's leading, even when it seems risky or uncomfortable. As you take those steps of faith, you will experience the faithfulness and power of God in remarkable ways.

5. Reflect on God's Faithfulness

Take time to remember and reflect on how God has been faithful in your life. Recall the answered prayers, the moments of provision, and the times when God carried you through difficult seasons. Reminding yourself of God's faithfulness strengthens your trust in Him for the present and future.

Conclusion

As we journey through life, our faith will face tests, doubts, and obstacles. However, we can take comfort in the knowledge that Jesus empowers us to grow and strengthen our faith. By fixing our eyes on Him, trusting in the power of God, and cultivating our faith through prayer and the study of His Word, we can experience the transformative power of faith.

So, let us embrace the truth that faith, like a mustard seed, can grow into something extraordinary. As we step out in obedience and trust in God's faithfulness, we will witness mountains moving, doubts transforming, and the kingdom of God advancing. May our faith be a beacon of hope and a testimony to the greatness of our God in 2023 and beyond.