2006-05-03 - Why Be Surprised?

For the past three weeks, we have looked at Matthew 21, where Jesus cursed a barren fruit tree. Today we will focus on the story from Mark's Gospel.

Mark 11:20-25

In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots. Peter remembered and said to Jesus, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!" Have faith in God," Jesus answered. (Verses 20-22, NIV)

Peter could not believe his eyes! The fig tree had withered just as Jesus commanded. Peter was so astonished that he told Jesus to look at the tree, as if Jesus needed to look! Jesus did not take the time to examine the tree with Peter; instead He took the opportunity to enlighten Peter on the importance of faith.

"I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." (Verses 23-24)

Having faith is more than wishful thinking or believing in luck or coincidence. Faith is the belief that what God said will come to pass, no matter how long it takes.

The tree wasn't the only thing that died that day; so did Peter's doubt.

Lord, In the name of Jesus, I tell doubt to take a hike today, and seek to put faith in its place. I believe I receive my answers to prayer, according to Your perfect will. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Lisa

lisa@cfdevotionals.org
http://www.cfdevotionals.org