Articles
Boundless Possibilities
“So Jesus answered and said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' it will be done. "And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive" (Matthew 21:21-22).
Just before His death, Jesus made His final entry into Jerusalem. His purpose was to expose its religious leaders, and to warn Jerusalem of impending judgment. A fruitless fig tree represented the pitiful condition of Judiasm. Miraculously, Jesus cursed the tree and used it to teach the apostles an important lesson about faith and prayer.
There can be no prayer without faith in God. The atheist cannot pray. He has no god to whom he can pray. The Christian can pray believing in a personal God who intelligently listens to His petitions. He prays to a God who is able to keep His pledge to do whatever He wishes.
The Apostles were still weak in faith. Thus, the Lord’s lesson, “have faith in God;” do not doubt.” Doubt destroys the strength of prayer, but with faith “all things are possible.” Absolute trust in the power and good will of God is a prerequisite to effectual prayer.
Effective prayer must also be supported by an active faith. When we pray we must make sure we have the proper motives (James 4:3). We must strive to live according to God’s will. When we pray what is our real motive? Is it for personal gain or comfort or that God is glorified? It is the prayer of a righteous man that avails much.
Prayer accompanied by an active faith can move mountains. Trust in the Lord’s promises and pray with perseverance. Our challenges may seem like a deep rooted mountain. Pray in faith, believing in God’s power and love. “With God all things are possible”.
