60. How do I grow in faith so my faith can become strong?

Jesus’ disciples asked Jesus the same question one day. Read Luke 17 verses 5 – 6 for the amazing answer He gave them. ‘The disciples said to the Lord, ‘Show us how to increase our faith.’ The Lord answered, ‘If you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘May you be uprooted and thrown into the sea,’ and it would obey you!’

‘And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him’ (Hebrews 11:6). ‘So faith comes from hearing that is, hearing the Good News about Christ’ (Romans 10:17). This Good News will nourish your faith and help it grow. It is important to read the Holy Bible, particularly the stories of the life of Christ in the four gospels in the New Testament. It is also important to pray and talk to God about every aspect of your life. Pray for the needs of others as well; God will answer your prayers and this will help you grow in faith. Jesus taught His disciples about faith in Matthew 21 verses 21-22: ‘Then Jesus told them, ‘I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don’t doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive.’

In Islâm, Muslims believe that their faith becomes strong as they practise the practices of their faith. Praying five times a day, fasting in Ramadan, giving Zakat to the poor, repeating the Shahdah (Creed), going on a Hajj to Mecca, exerting oneself on behalf of God, and spreading Islâm and Shariah Law are the things Muslims can do to strengthen their faith. Meeting frequently with the Ummah or Muslim community at the Mosque (Masjid) is another way the faith of Muslims is strengthened.