Increasing Faith

The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" 6 The Lord replied, "If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it would obey you. 7 "Who among you would say to your slave who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field, 'Come here at once and take your place at the table'? 8 Would you not rather say to him, 'Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink; later you may eat and drink'? 9 Do you thank the slave for doing what was commanded? 10 So you also, when you have done all that you were ordered to do, say, 'We are worthless slaves; we have done only what we ought to have done!'" 11 On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As he entered a village, ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, 13 they called out, saying, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" 14 When he saw them, he said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were made clean. (Luke 17:5-14)

A Word of Encouragement: A little faith goes a long way! (verse 6) Therefore, start with what you have and exercise it. The amount of faith is not as important as exercising whatever amount we have.

Consider yourself a servant of the Lord. Live as one whose purpose is always to do God's will. (verses 7-10)

When you have done what the Lord has called you to do, do not act like you did any more than that. Do not seek the praise or thanks of others. Give God the glory!

St. Paul wrote concerning Abraham: No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, being fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. (Romans 4:20-21)

Act on God's word! Be obedient! (verses 12-14)

Living according to the flesh will not increase faith. Depending on ourselves will not increase faith. Being people pleasers will not increase faith. Seeking glory for ourselves from others will not increase faith. Disobedience to God will not increase faith.

Living according to the Spirit will increase faith. Depending on the power of God will increase faith. Trusting in God's word and God's promises will increase faith. Giving God the glory will increase faith. Obedience to God will increase faith.

Questions For Reflection & Sharing

Give examples of what it means to exercise faith.
How does disobedience clog up the channels for God's power in our lives?
Faith comes by hearing. What are we listening to? How does listening to God's word help our faith to grow?
What situations are you facing right now for which you feel you need more faith in order to experience God's victory? What steps can you take?