The Life and Ministry of Jesus
Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” Matthew 17:19–21
When the disciples inquired why they had not been able to heal the boy, Jesus said their problem was their little faith. Even a small amount of faith, as small as a mustard seed, is adequate to move a huge mountain, assuming, of course, that the “move” is in God’s will. Nothing is impossible with God. (But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting,” based on Mark 9:29.)
Jesus was instructing the disciples about their future ministries. Their problem often would be lack of faith and failure to seek their Lord’s direction. His Word would be sufficient to produce the desired healing but their actions would necessitate great faith and constant contact with the Lord through prayer. When these elements are combined, there is no limit to the works the disciples could accomplish, following His will. 1
Personal Encouragement
What is something in your life that will take a miracle from God to make happen? Are you ready and willing to believe that He will do the impossible for you?
But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26
He will do the unexpected, because He is the God who does the impossible.
A Prayer
Lord, please forgive my lack of faith. I do believe You will do the impossible for me.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
