Lord Increase Our Faith

In Luke 17, after hearing Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness, the disciples became keenly aware of their own spiritual limitation. Just like us they wanted to be empowered and endowed with the spiritual power which Jesus possessed. Recognizing this weakness, they turned to Jesus and made a simple but powerful request:

“And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.” (Luke 17:5, KJV)

This request reflects spiritual maturity. The disciples were honest about what they lacked, and instead of pretending strength, they sought divine help. They understood that faith is not something we manufacture, rather it is something that must be nurtured and strengthened by God.

We should maintain this same posture as Christians today. When we recognize that we lack patience, forgiveness, wisdom, courage, endurance, or faith, God Himself is our source of supply. The solution is not self-effort alone the solution is prayerful dependence upon God.

James reinforces this principle:

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering…” (James 1:5–6)

While James specifically addresses wisdom, the principle applies to every spiritual need. God is not stingy. He does not scold believers for asking. He gives generously and graciously. What He requires is faith, a trusting confidence in His character and power.

James also warns that doubting undermines prayer. To waver is to be spiritually unstable, pulled between trust and fear. Faith, not hesitation, positions the believer to receive from God.

The lesson is clear:

• We serve a God who is sovereign. He rules over all.

• We serve a God who is all-knowing nothing escapes His understanding.

• We serve a God who is omnipresent. He is everywhere at all times.

• We serve a God who is loving. He loved us first and gave His Son for us.

This is the God we serve, we should never hesitate to bring our spiritual needs before Him. Like the disciples, we must be willing to say:

“Lord, increase our faith.”