The Fig Tree

0 0

I planted four fig trees in my yard last summer after learning they could grow in my climate. I did not insulate them as I had planned and so far, there is no evidence of life, they are just dainty withered sticks. Time will tell if they grow and bear fruit or just become decorative sticks in my front yard. I was reading in Matthew about the fig tree and the lesson of the withered fig tree, chapter 21:18-22 (and Mark 11:12-14 where the story is also told). In this story, the fig tree is Israel when Jesus was alive. Israel had the lush foliage of a majestic fig tree but failed to bear fruit because they rejected the Son of God. 

Jesus said to the fig tree,

Let no fruit grow on you ever again.

Matthew 21:1 NKJV

The context is important, but the Bible is not an outdated textbook desperately in need of revisions, it is a living document with practical application for all times. There is a saying, “all hat and no cattle” to describe a person who talks big but has no substance. Just like that fig tree from a distance it looked like a great location for an early morning snack but lacked substance, just showy shrubbery. I do not want to be showy shrubbery! I want to bear life-sustaining fruit for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

But how? After Jesus commanded the fig tree to never bear fruit again it shriveled up and died the disciples who were with Jesus were shocked by the transformation. Just as I would be shocked to look out my window and see the decorative fig sticks in my yard transform before my eyes into majestic fig trees loaded with fruit. The how is answered in verse 21-22, the power of prayer when coupled with the will and purpose of God. 

21 So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ it will be done. 22 And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”

Matthew 21:21-22 NKJV

When my children pray it often turns into a wish list, “I want a unicorn” or “I want a chainsaw” while these are not inappropriate requests, and they are filled with faith that God can provide we must remember that our prayers must be in alignment with God’s will and plan. Sometimes even as adults, we get trapped in wish list prayers, I cannot be the only one who has prayed to win the lottery, or to not have a cavity at a dentist appointment. Jesus in his own words tells us the critical importance of faith, without doubt, and the incredible power of prayer. Read verse 22 again. 

22 And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.

Matthew 21:22 NKJV

God help me pray confidently following Your will and plan. Let me have robust faith and overcome any doubt for you are a good and loving Father. Thank you for your grace, and your desire not for perfect prayers but just that we lift our hearts to you in prayers. Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10). I lift my voice to You in prayer, Hosanna in the highest! -Amen 

May the words that flow from me Lord be filled with Your message and when I am obedient may they be backed by the Holy Spirit. When I serve righteously let none of the words, I utter in praise of You fall to the ground. Help me to craft every word, may they pierce hearts and refresh weary souls. This gift is Yours; God I simply aim to use it for your glory.

–Love Cortney