By Andrew Williams
Mark 11:20-22 (NLT): “The next morning as they passed by the fig tree he had cursed, the disciples noticed it had withered from the roots up. Peter remembered what Jesus had said to the tree on the previous day and exclaimed, ‘Look, Rabbi! The fig tree you cursed has withered and died!’ Then Jesus said to the disciples, ‘Have faith in God.'”
Good morning fellow disciples.
In this passage, the disciples witness the power of Jesus’ words as they notice the withered fig tree He had cursed the day before. Peter, always quick to observe and speak, points out the dramatic result of Jesus’ action. Rather than focusing on the miracle itself, Jesus uses this moment to teach a foundational truth: “Have faith in God.” His response redirects Peter and the other disciples from marveling at the act of power to understanding the source of all power—faith in God.
The cursed fig tree symbolizes a life that bears no fruit, despite outward appearances. Jesus highlights that faith is not just about external actions but about trusting God deeply and completely. This encounter reminds us that faith is the key to seeing God’s power at work in our lives, and it begins with a heart fully surrendered to Him.
Peter’s amazement at the withered fig tree reveals his growing understanding of Jesus’ authority. Yet, Jesus uses this moment to further shape Peter’s faith, teaching him to look beyond the physical miracle to the spiritual principle of trusting God. Peter, who would later become a bold leader in the early church, needed to learn that faith in God—unshakable and unwavering—is the foundation of a fruitful life and ministry.
As disciples, we often get caught up in the visible results of God’s work and forget to deepen our faith in the One who makes all things possible. Like Peter, we are empowered to redirect our focus from the outcomes to the Source—our God who is faithful and powerful to provide, heal, and sustain.
Where in your life are you focusing more on the results than on trusting God? Are you waiting for a miracle but forgetting to nurture your faith in the One who performs miracles? Redirect your focus to God Himself. Faith is not just about believing for outcomes but about trusting in God’s character and His promises, even when the results aren’t immediate or visible.
This week, spend intentional time in prayer, asking God to strengthen your faith. Pick one area of your life where you’ve been striving to see results and surrender it to Him. Practice trusting in His timing and His ways, knowing that He is faithful to accomplish His will for you.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for teaching me through Peter’s journey to trust in You above all else. I confess that I often focus on the results I want to see instead of fully trusting in Your power and plan. Today, I choose to redirect my focus to You. Strengthen my faith, Lord, and help me to trust in Your timing and Your ways, even when I don’t understand. Let my faith bear fruit that glorifies You. I commit to walking as a disciple who trusts You completely. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
