What is your attitude when you encounter a seemingly impossible situation? Some of us try harder, whereas others may simply give up and seek another path. Jesus gave His disciples a strategy to help them deal with challenging difficulties. It starts with getting our focus off the problem and on God. Let’s look at the advice Jesus gave to His disciples,

And Jesus answered saying to them, “Have faith in God. (Mark 11:22)

This is a present tense imperative which implies a continuous action – Jesus is encouraging them to continue to have faith in God. Jesus revealed that our relationship with God is the foundation of our faith in Him. We must know God if we are to trust Him. The key issue of faith is not whether we believe in God, but whether we believe in the God we believe in. Faith is more than believing that God can — it is trusting that He will.

And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6) 

The true test of our faith often comes when we face adversity.  Any one can hold the helm when the sea is calm, but can we trust God in the storm? 

Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right. (1 Peter 4:19)

Prayer enables us to tap into the power of God. Jesus revealed that God’s power knows no limits,

Truly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, “Be taken up and cast into the sea,” and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says is going to happen, it will be granted him. (Mark 11:23)

Jesus presented an impossible task such as moving a mountain into the sea. As far as we know, Jesus never cast a mountain in the sea nor did any of His disciples. This is hyperbole using the imagery of mountain moving faith. What enables us to demonstrate that type of faith? Prayer is the link that connects our inability to His all-sufficiency. Could it be that our lack of a strong and vibrant prayer life is because we lack a proper view of God? Jesus then summarized His teaching,

Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you. (Mark 11:24)

It is significant to note the three verb tenses in this verse. You are to pray in the present, believing that you have already received your request, even though the answer is still in the future. It’s a comfort to know that the power comes not from our faith, but from God. You don’t need to know where you’re going if you know God is leading.

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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