Have you ever stood at the base of a mountain and felt completely awed by its sheer size and grandeur? This Wednesday 11th December 2024, we celebrate International Mountain Day, a day dedicated to the majesty and importance of mountains. They remind us of God’s unmatched creativity and power—and yet, they also symbolise the obstacles we often face in life.
As Christians, we’ve all faced metaphorical mountains—those seemingly immovable situations that make us feel helpless. But here’s the good news: Jesus tells us mountains can move. In Matthew 17:20, He declared, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
Take a moment to really consider that. Did you notice Jesus doesn’t demand superhuman faith, just the tiniest seed-sized amount? Still, we can often feel as though even that small measure of faith eludes us when we’re faced with marital disputes, financial pressures, health trials, or spiritual doubts. And let’s not forget, the UK doesn’t exactly provide us with much literal mountain-climbing practice—unless you count Snowdonia or maybe the Lake District! Yet, here’s the truth: no matter the size or shape, the mountains in your life are no match for the God who created Mount Everest and Ben Nevis alike.
So, here’s your challenge for today. What mountain have you been staring up at lately? Is it the mountain of unforgiveness? The mountain of self-doubt? Maybe it’s a mountain of fear you’ve been carting around in your backpack for far too long. Whatever the case, commit it into God’s hands. Pray, even if your voice shakes and your faith feels small. Speak to your mountain, just as Jesus taught. Is it easy? Not always. But with faith, God can move that mountain—or give you the strength to climb it.
Reflection Verse
Matthew 17:20: “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
Reflection Question
What is one ‘mountain’ in your life that you need to surrender to God today?
Encouraging Action
Take just five minutes today to write down your mountain in a journal or on a piece of paper. Then pray over it, naming it before God and asking Him to strengthen your faith. Offer it up to Him and trust His perfect timing and way to either move it or walk you through it.
Prayer
Father God, You are the Creator of the Earth, the One who spoke mountains into existence. Today, I lift up the mountains in my life—the fears, challenges, and doubts that feel so vast and overwhelming. I surrender them to You, Lord, trusting in Your power to move them. Strengthen my faith, even if it’s as small as a mustard seed. Help me to cling to You and walk in confidence, knowing that You are always with me. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
