Matthew 21:18-32

Be Still: Holy Spirit, come and make your home in me as I lean on your Word today. Speak to me and lead me beside quiet waters as I meditate on your goodness. Amen

Read: Matthew 21:18-32

‘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.’ (v21-22)

Encounter: In today's passage, Jesus goes full-on ‘Old Testament prophet’ by cursing a fig tree and causing it to wither instantly. That’s an eye-popping event! The disciples don’t ask ‘why’ he did it, just ‘how’. Perhaps the ‘why’ was evident from Jesus’ earlier demonstration at the temple (v12). The people there weren't producing fruit in keeping with repentance, therefore judgement was coming. The fig tree acted as a powerful visual aid of Jesus’ authority.  

Let’s not miss the strong statement Jesus made back at the temple about prayer: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer’ (v13). At the fig tree, when the disciples asked ‘how’ Jesus did it, the answer was by prayer. Jesus’ call was for his people to pray - to have faith and not doubt. The withered fig tree illustrated that the people were doubting the power of prayer; instead, they were turning to the power of possessions - a deadly choice which produced no life fruit. 

When we buy into the lie that God is not enough and believe more is needed, we pad out our lives with unfruitful things and, like the fig-tree, our souls wither. But Jesus illustrates what is possible by faith and the power of prayer: miraculous breakthrough, partnership with heaven, and new creation. In season and out of season, while there is withering for those who do not choose him, there is abundant life for those who do. 

Apply: In my life, where are the forks in the road asking me to choose faith over doubt? Is it in my home, my relationships, my work, or all the above? Is my current situation revealing in me a faith that is powered by prayer or doubt powered by possessions? 

Devote: Lord, you know me, my mix of faith and doubt. Today, I choose to put my total faith in you, seeking you and your kingdom first. Holy Spirit, teach me the power of prayer.