For truly, I say to you, 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.” Matthew 17:20
In Matthew 17:20, Jesus tells his doubting disciples that even faith as small as a mustard seed can move the very mountain they were standing on. Just imagine that – something as tiny as a speck can accomplish the impossible! But why? It's certainly not because of the size of the faith. Rather, it’s because of the greatness of the One in whom our faith is placed.
Here are some mustard seed facts: It starts small, almost insignificant in size, 1-2 millimeters in diameter. Yet when it's planted in the right soil, it grows into a sturdy tree up to 30 feet tall with branches spanning up to 20 feet wide, which offer shade and shelter to those around it. Our faith placed in the Lord is like that seed. It may begin small, but when it's planted in the fertile soil of God's promises, it can flourish beyond our wildest imagination. (Matthew 13:31–32)
James echoes this sentiment in his letter, reminding us that when we ask in faith, without doubting, we have access to the limitless power of God. Doubt, on the other hand, is like a wave, tossing us about in uncertainty and fear. But when we anchor ourselves in unwavering faith, we find strength in Christ to face whatever comes our way. (James 1:6)
Consider the stories of the heroes of faith who dared to believe in God against all odds. Enoch walked so closely with God that he was taken to heaven without experiencing death. Noah, amidst ridicule and doubt, built an ark and survived the flood. The walls of Jericho crumbled at the sound of obedient faith. Lions' mouths were closed for Daniel, and the fiery furnace lost its power over Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. (More examples in Hebrews 11)
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the mountains in your life, take heart. It's not about having mountains of faith but about trusting in the One who can move the mountains with just your mustard seed faith. Plant your faith in God's promises, and watch as it grows into something beautiful and unshakeable, even offering hope and refuge to those around you.