“Howbeit this kind goes not out but by prayer and fasting.”
Matthew 17:21
Mustard-seed Faith that can move mountains is always preceded, accompanied and anointed by these two things.
“Prayer and fasting.”
How little we know of these two things, if the truth be known—for too often our prayers are perfunctory and springing more from the head than from the heart. Like those who quote the Lord’s Prayer from rote memory during worship, but have never thought of the meaning of the words or sought to put them into practice, so is prayer that’s unaccompanied by desperate desire and self-deprivation.
Dear Pilgrim, full heads and full stomachs are deterrents to “effectual prayers” (James 5:16). Pride intoxicates, making us feel “spiritual” and even proud of our humility! But, prayer that touches God’s Heart and reaches His Ear is that which says “I will not let You go until You bless me” (Gen. 32:24-26). It’s the passionate pursuit of God Himself—and all that He wants to do in/through us—that “seeks Him first in all things” (Mt. 6:33).
Notice it says “seeks HIM first in all things.”
Not things. Not blessings. Not power and possessions.
But, Him: Jesus, the Risen Lord. The Savior of all who believe.
It’s your “Magnificent Obsession” where you cannot rest until you “know Him, the Power of His Resurrection, the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His Death” (Phil. 3:10).
And, this will not happen except through “prayer and fasting.”
What are you willing to give up in order to receive what God wants to give? What things are you still clinging to. . .have a death grip on. . .that you’re unwilling to let go up, even though you know the Spirit has said “Let go and let God”?
Until you do, you’ll not see God move that mountain in your life.
The disciples couldn’t deliver the young boy from the tormenting demon when the father brought him to them (Mt. 17:14-16). And, when they privately asked Jesus why they were powerless to do so, He told them it was because of unbelief and their failure to fast and pray (vv.19-21).
And, the same will be true for us until we take Christ at His Word.
So, what immovable “mountain” are you facing right now, dear Pilgrim, that’s leaving you discouraged or depressed? Is it a loved one’s or friend’s unloving or obstinate response to you? Is it a distressing situation at work or your facing “insurmountable odds” in what you’ve been tasked to do?
Whatever it is, heed Christ’s words: “Nothing—absolutely nothing—like this goes forth except by prayer and fasting. But, simple, mustard-seed faith in Who I am and what I’ve promised will make nothing impossible to you. Trust and obey. There’s no other way.”
January 12, 2012
