Scripture
The Lord answered, “If you had faith as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, 'May you be uprooted and thrown into the sea', and it would obey you.”
Observation
The apostles ask Jesus to show them how to have more faith, but Jesus says that even a mustard seed is enough to remove a deep-rooted tree.
Then he continues with a contradictory saying indicating that we are just to be faithful and humble servants of Christ.
Application
The issue of faith and its interaction with the world is complex but straightforward.
Jesus here makes it clear that faith isn't a quantity issue. You don't need more faith because the tiniest amount will change things.
The point isn't about my faith but the object of the faith. While I worry about how much or how little faith I have, nothing will change. Focussing on God will change everything.
People can become over-impressed with their own faith or prayers or special relationship with God.
There are people who have special spiritual authority or spectacular miracles and healings. But at the end of the day, we need to keep our focus on the fact that we are here for God's kingdom, He is not here for ours. Our faith, our prayers, our declarations must always be in accordance with God's will.
After all, we are just unworthy servants who have simply done our duty.
Prayer
Thank you Father for those prayers that are answered, for the acts of faith that seem so powerful. Lord help me to remember that it is not my faith that matters so much as your ability. Help me to grow in the ministry of simply serving you. Amen.
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