Cultivating the Faith That Moves Mountains

By Romina Chevren

“Early in the morning, as Jesus was on his way back to the city, he was hungry. Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, ‘May you never bear fruit again!’ Immediately the tree withered. When the disciples saw this, they were amazed. ‘How did the fig tree wither so quickly?’ they asked. Jesus replied, ‘Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, “Go, throw yourself into the sea,” and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.’”—Matthew 21:18–22 (NIV)

The encounter of Jesus with the fig tree holds profound lessons for us about the nature of faith and its power to bring about transformation in our lives and circumstances. As Jesus and His disciples were journeying, He saw a fig tree with leaves but no fruit. Despite its outward appearance of vitality, it lacked the substance of fruitfulness. In response, Jesus spoke a word of judgment, and the tree withered immediately.

At first glance, this incident may seem perplexing or even harsh. However, it serves as a powerful metaphor for the importance of genuine faith and the consequences of spiritual barrenness. Just as the fig tree appeared fruitful but failed to bear fruit, superficial appearances can often mask spiritual emptiness in our lives.

Jesus's statement to His disciples following this event unveils the transformative potential of unwavering faith. He uses the fig tree as a teaching moment to illustrate the incredible power of faith—a power that can move mountains and bring about miraculous outcomes. Jesus doesn't limit the scope of this power; He assures His followers that if they have faith without doubt, they can accomplish extraordinary feats.

The key to unlocking this power lies in our belief and trust in God. Jesus emphasizes the importance of faith that is free from doubt, anchored in the certainty of God's promises and sovereignty. It's a faith that doesn't waver in the face of challenges or uncertainties but remains steadfast in its conviction of God's faithfulness and ability to fulfill His Word.

Furthermore, Jesus extends an invitation to His disciples—and to us—to engage in prayer as a means of activating this faith. Prayer is not merely a ritualistic practice but a powerful tool through which we align our hearts with God's will and tap into His supernatural power. When we approach God in prayer with unwavering faith, believing that He is able to accomplish the impossible, we open ourselves to receive His abundant blessings and provision.

The promise Jesus gives regarding prayer is both astounding and comforting: "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." This assurance underscores the intimacy of our relationship with God and His desire to respond to the petitions of His faithful children.

As we reflect on the encounter of Jesus with the fig tree and His teachings on faith and prayer, let us examine our own lives. Are we bearing fruit in accordance with God's purposes, or are we merely displaying outward appearances of spirituality? Are we cultivating a faith that moves mountains, trusting in God's power to bring about transformation in our lives and the world around us?

May we strive to nurture a faith that is genuine, unwavering, and deeply rooted in the promises of God. Let us approach Him in prayer with boldness and expectancy, knowing that He is able to accomplish far beyond what we can ask or imagine. And may the testimony of our lives be a testament to the limitless power of faith in the hands of a faithful and loving God.

Pause: Take a moment to quiet your heart and mind, setting aside any distractions or concerns. Picture the scene as Jesus encounters the fig tree and teaches His disciples about the power of faith and prayer. Consider the significance of this encounter and what lessons it holds for your own walk of faith.

Practice: Consider areas in your life where you may be experiencing spiritual barrenness—places where you may be lacking in fruitfulness or facing challenges that seem insurmountable. Just as Jesus confronted the fig tree, take a courageous look at these areas and invite the Holy Spirit to reveal any underlying issues or hindrances to your spiritual growth. Next, commit to cultivating a faith that’s free from doubt and anchored in God's promises. Reflect on times when your faith wavered or you struggled to trust in God's provision. Take practical steps to strengthen your faith, such as spending time in prayer, studying God's Word, and surrounding yourself with a supportive Christian community.

Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the powerful example of faith and prayer that Jesus demonstrates in this passage. Help me to cultivate a faith that is unwavering and free from doubt, trusting in Your ability to accomplish the impossible. Show me any areas in my life where I may be experiencing spiritual barrenness, and empower me to surrender them to You in prayer. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, that I may bear fruit that glorifies Your name and reflects Your love to the world. In Jesus's name, I pray. Amen.