“So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ it will be done.” (Matt. 21:21).
By Michael Adekoya – Dear Reader, faith is one of the most powerful themes in Scripture. It is the foundation of the Christian life, the means by which we receive God’s promises, and the confidence that enables us to persevere through life’s greatest challenges. In Matthew 21:21, Jesus introduces us to a faith that is not merely professed but lived—a faith that trusts God completely and acts upon His Word.
Jesus spoke these words after His disciples observed the withered fig tree. The tree, which had appeared fruitful but was barren, became an object lesson on the importance of genuine spiritual life. Amazed at how quickly it had withered, the disciples asked Jesus about the miracle. Instead of focusing on the miracle itself, Jesus directed their attention to the principle behind it: “If you have faith, and doubt not…”. The lesson was clear: God’s power is experienced through wholehearted trust in Him. Living faith is more than acknowledging God’s existence; it is relying on His power, His promises, and His perfect will.
Living faith is an active, growing trust in God that shapes our decisions, influences our actions, and sustains us through every season of life. It is not passive belief or wishful thinking. It is faith that produces obedience. The Bible consistently presents faith as something that is demonstrated in daily living. It believes God’s promises before they become visible and obeys His commands even when the outcome is uncertain.
Living faith means, trusting God’s Word above human reasoning. Obeying Him without demanding complete understanding. Remaining steadfast during trials. Expecting God to work according to His wisdom and timing. Such faith transforms ordinary believers into faithful servants who glorify God through their lives. Jesus emphasized, “If you have faith, and doubt not.” Doubt divides the heart between trusting God and relying on human limitations. While believers may struggle with questions and fears, living faith continually chooses to place confidence in God’s character rather than in changing circumstances.
This kind of faith declares, God is faithful even when I cannot see the outcome. God is able even when the situation appears impossible. God’s promises remain true regardless of my circumstances. Faith does not eliminate difficulties; it enables believers to face them with confidence in God’s presence and power.
Jesus continued by saying that faith could say to a mountain, “Be removed,” and it would obey. Mountains often represent obstacles that seem impossible to overcome, financial hardship, sickness, broken relationships, opposition, or spiritual battles. The Lord’s teaching reminds us that no obstacle is greater than God’s power. Living faith does not magnify the mountain; it magnifies the God who is able to move it. Sometimes God removes the mountain. At other times, He strengthens His people to climb it or gives them grace to endure it. In every case, faith rests in God’s perfect plan.
Throughout Scripture, faith is always accompanied by action. Noah built the ark before the rain came. Abraham left his homeland without knowing his destination. Moses confronted Pharaoh despite overwhelming odds. The apostles proclaimed the gospel despite persecution. Their faith was visible because it shaped the way they lived. Likewise, believers today demonstrate living faith by serving faithfully, loving generously, praying consistently, forgiving freely, and remaining committed to Christ regardless of circumstances.
Living faith grows as believers cultivate their relationship with God. We strengthen our faith by, studying and meditating on God’s Word. Spending time in prayer. Obeying God’s commands. Remembering His past faithfulness. Worshipping with other believers. Trusting Him daily in both small and great matters. Faith matures through experience as God repeatedly proves Himself faithful.
Living faith brings peace in uncertainty, courage in adversity, hope in disappointment, and joy in God’s unfailing promises. Most importantly, it brings glory to God, who delights in those who trust Him wholeheartedly. The Christian life is not sustained by human ability but by continual dependence upon the Lord. As we walk by faith rather than by sight, we become living testimonies of God’s grace and power.
In conclusion; Jesus’ words in Matthew 21:21 continue to challenge every believer today: “If you have faith, and doubt not.” The Lord calls His followers to a faith that is alive, steadfast, and unwavering, a faith that trusts Him completely and obeys Him faithfully. May we cultivate a living faith that looks beyond present circumstances, embraces God’s promises, and remains confident that nothing is impossible with Him. Such faith not only overcomes obstacles but also reveals the greatness of the God in whom we believe. Remain blessed!
