“And the apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith.’”
Luke 17:5

Faith and Duty

The disciples of Jesus have asked Him to increase their faith. Jesus seems to say that faith is not the issue. Faith as small as a tiny mustard seed can speak to a mulberry tree, which has a vast root system allowing it to live up to 600 years, and cast that mighty tree into the depths of ocean waves.

Then Jesus begins to speak of duty, service, faithfulness and obedience. He speaks of a servant who toils in the sun all day and then comes home in the evening to prepare his master’s supper. This is the master’s expectation. This is the servant’s willing duty.

As bond slaves of Jesus we must put our faith to work. This is our reasonable service.

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1).

Faith is evidenced by faithful duty. Faithful duty causes faith to increase. As an example, I was once called to a “duty” I felt I could not accomplish. Many times I had failed in the very thing I was being asked to do. But the Holy Spirit stirred up my tiny mustard seed faith to take on this daunting deed. In fear and trembling I took that leap of faith. God met me there in my obedience and I saw clearly that He is more than enough. This experience increased my faith and gave me confidence to continue in my calling.

What is your faith leading you to do? How is your faith being evidenced?

“Father, help us to serve well. Stir up our faith to answer our calling. We trust in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”