Introduction

In our daily lives, we often engage in small talk to break the ice with strangers. One common topic for small talk is the weather. However, it seems that gas prices have now taken over as the new popular small talk topic. People are more concerned about their gas tanks than anything else. This analogy of a gas tank can be applied to our relationship with God, but it can be dangerous. Faith is not like a gas tank that constantly needs topping up, and church is not a gas station that exists solely to service our Christianity.

The Disciples' Request

The disciples made a similar mistake in their thinking. They believed that if they had more faith, they could be better disciples. They asked Jesus to increase their faith, thinking it would make them more capable. However, their request was misguided.

Jesus' Response

Jesus responded to the disciples' request in a somewhat sarcastic manner. He told them that even if they had faith as small as a mustard seed, they could still do great things. He emphasized that they already had faith, and what they needed was faithfulness. Faith is a gift from God, and He gives us the amount of faith we need. Asking for more faith is an insult to God. Faithfulness, on the other hand, is our response to our faith. It is about being loyal and obedient to Jesus, putting our trust in Him as both Savior and Lord.

The Importance of Faithfulness

Jesus had just taught the disciples about the seriousness of sin and the need for accountability and forgiveness. He emphasized the importance of showing grace and mercy to others. Faithfulness is our way of living out our faith in response to these teachings. It means being accountable to one another and being willing to forgive. We must be willing to give our entire lives over to God and be faithful in doing what He asks of us.

A Parable of Faithfulness

Jesus shared a parable to illustrate the concept of faithfulness. He compared it to a servant who faithfully serves his master without expecting any special recognition or reward. Faithfulness is simply part of our job description as Christians. It is expected of us, and it is not something that earns us salvation or special praise.

Conclusion

When we feel spiritually low or lacking, it is not because we lack faith but because we lack faithfulness. Our spiritual tanks are not filled by coming to church or relying on others. The Holy Spirit dwells within us, and God works best from within our own hearts if we let Him. The most spiritually mature individuals are those who are faithfully serving God and living their lives for Him. Let us strive to be faithful in our walk with God, constantly using our faith to serve others and trusting that God will take care of our own spiritual tanks.

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