A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW 

IF YOU HAVE FAITH     

Matthew 21:21-22 “Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” 

Jesus’ Disciples came to Him and asked Him why they had been unable to drive out an evil spirit that had possessed a man. “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.’”  (Matthew 17:19-21) Jesus said, “ . . . if you have faith . . . it will be done.” Elsewhere the Holy Scriptures say, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)  

God provides you with an incredible blessing and privilege to communicate directly with Him about anything and everything through your heart-to-heart talks with Him in your prayers. It is not the prayer that has power. Rather, in faith through your prayers to God you enlist HIS almighty power and providential care. Remember, your heavenly Father knows what you need before you ask Him. (Matthew 6:8) He says to you, “I am the Lord Your God and I will answer you.” (Zechariah 10:6) 

As you pray remember these words of John, “ This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him.” That is why Jesus has taught you to pray, “They will be done. . .” (Matthew 6:10) 

Prayer: Grant me faith to come to you through my prayers, O Lord, trusting You to answer everyone of them in accord with Your will and for my good. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Be still, my soul, before the Lord,  
For God is always near.  
Before your mind is moved to pray,  
God listens and will hear. 

You need not multiply your words  
Nor pray with practiced art.  
Beyond all speech, God understands  
The Hunger of your heart. 

Wait, then, in quiet confidence,  
Your anxious thoughts at rest.  
God knows your needs before you ask  
And works for what is best. 

Be still, my soul, before the Lord;  
On God in patience wait.  
God’s love, unseen, surrounds your life;  
God’s help will not be late.  

Be Still, My Soul, before the Lord // LSB 771