Faith: Part II

Yesterday we covered the difference between hope and faith. Hope is a desire in a future outcome, something we want to happen. Faith is about conviction!

One key difference with respect to faith is the element of proof. There is no hard evidence. No breadcrumbs to be followed. It requires a belief, and that belief, without proof, must be placed in God. One might ask, "How can I have faith without proof?" This is a question that Christians and Non-Christians can equally share.

Go back to the verse about the mustard seed parable about faith. Jesus makes a reference to this parable again as recorded in Matthew 17:20, "He replied, "Because you have so little faith." Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

Just before in Matthew 17:14-19, he explains to several of the disciples in verse 20 why a demon could not be withdrawn from a possessed boy. A small measure of faith, as small as a mustard seed, can move mountains.

Let's look back a few paragraphs where I presented the question concerning faith and proof. James 1:6 reads, "But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." In this verse James is encouraging us, with conviction, that those who seek wisdom should ask for it.

The references in the parables surrounding faith are far and wide, but beautiful. Faith as small as a mustard seed. Moving mountains with mere words. Speaking without doubt, as doubt is like the forward motion and retracting motion in the waves of the sea.

As we can ask for wisdom, understanding and favor; we can ask for our faith to be increased.

A verse that shows a measure of proof in a certain outcome is found in Mark 11:24. "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." To have a greater measure of faith, we must ask for an increase in our faith.

Above we have reviewed three verses from the Gospels; two from Matthew and one from Mark.

Let's look at one from Paul. In Romans 1:17 he writes, "For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed -- a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written:  "The righteous will live by faith."

To have an increase in faith, we can ask for it. We need to ask for faith in prayer; just as we would understanding and wisdom. Do not doubt; believe that you will receive what you ask for.

There is power in what you ask for. Ask for an increase in your faith.

What concerns today would be less of a concern, or even an alleviated concern, if you were given a larger measure of faith by God?