"Truly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him." Mark 11:23
As a new Christian, many years ago, I was confused by Jesus' words in Mark 11:23. Was I to believe that if I wanted a physical mountain moved, all it would take is to believe it could be moved without doubting and God would do it?
No. Jesus didn't mean this in the literal sense. It is hyperbole. Barclay's commentary says, “The phrase about removing mountains was a quite common Jewish phrase. It was a regular, vivid phrase for removing difficulties.”
In Matthew Henry's commentary we read:
"Christ taught them from hence to pray in faith. It may be applied to that mighty faith with which all true Christians are endued, and which does wonders in spiritual things. It justifies us, and so removes mountains of guilt, never to rise up in judgment against us. It purifies the heart, and so removes mountains of corruption, and makes them plain before the grace of God."
We are told in scripture to come boldly to God's throne (Hebrews 4:16 NKJV), and that He is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think according to the power at work within us (Ephesians 3:20 ESV).
I have seen God move mountains in my life. Mountains of fear, mountains of doubt, mountains of depression, and so much more. Whatever mountain you may have in your life right now that needs to be moved, put your faith in Almighty God and believe that He is able to do the impossible, according to His will and not according to yours.
Knowing and applying this truth to our prayer life brings peace in seemingly impossible circumstances.
Today's music video God Who Moves Mountains by Corey Voss glorifies our amazing God. May it be an encouragement to you.
I love you, I'm thinking of you, and I'm praying for you.
I hope you are having a blessed Monday today my friend. God does indeed remove mountains in our lives. I've experienced it.
ReplyDeleteBlessings and hugs,
Betsy
Happy New Week, Nancy and friends. Nancy, I guess I'm a bit sheltered up here in Alaska, musically challenged. I have never heard of Corey Voss. I researched him and do recognize some of the songs that he is accredited with writing. Very cool. Now, I have a new name for that eavesdropping Alexa girl on my kitchen counter. She's weird, but she's a good listener. Take care, All.
ReplyDeleteThis verse used to make me question my faith! The way the commentaries reference this would have helped me tremendously when I just didn't get it. God has moved many for me too, Nancy, and I'm facing one currently that I won't try coping with on my own!
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