“The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!’” (Luke 17:5)

As we wrap up 2024 and prepare for a new year, there’s no better way to start 2025 than by deepening our faith in God. Like the apostles who boldly asked Jesus to “increase our faith,” we too should seek his help in strengthening our trust and reliance on him.

Christ reminded his disciples that there are many stumbling blocks to a life built on faith. In fact, he promises us they will come (Luke 17:1). There are moments in our lives that will challenge our walk with God. This is why Jesus tells us to be vigilant during those times (Luke 17:3) and ask for his help.

When the disciples asked Jesus to “increase” their faith, they weren’t asking for mere belief or trust. They sought a deeper, Christ-given faith—one that only the Holy Spirit could provide. This unique faith isn’t something we can create on our own or inherit from others; it’s a gift from God!

So, what are some practical ways you can increase your faith in 2025?

1. Have a humble attitude

To grow our faith in the upcoming year, we must first humbly ask God for help. Our prayer should be, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24).

When the disciples asked Jesus to increase their faith, he didn’t leave them hanging. In Luke 17:6-10 Jesus tells them that if they want their faith to grow, they must humble themselves like the servants in his parable (found in verses 7-10).

To strengthen your faith and relationship with God, you must humble yourself daily before the Lord.

This is what Jesus meant when he said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

2. Spend Time with God in Prayer

Jesus would often go off by himself and pray. Jesus Christ was fully God AND fully human. He knew the value of getting away from the demands of life and just spending time with the Father.

Christ tells us that prayer is a private matter.

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:6)

Set aside time each day to spend time with God in prayer. The more time you spend with him, the more your faith will grow.

3. Study God’s Word

Psalm 119:2 tells us that God’s Word should be studied and meditated on. It is the key to seeking him above all else.

“Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart.” (Psalm 119:2)

Consider starting 2025 by simply studying Psalm 119 in your daily bible reading.

Each verse tells us something unique about God’s word. There are eight titles that represent God’s Word in Psalm 119. Can you find them? Jot them down and record their meaning and how they apply to your life.

The more time you spend in God’s Word – and commit it to memory – the more you will see your faith grow.

4. Connect with Other Christians

How did Christianity spread in those first days and months after its inception? Luke tells us the explosion of Christianity was due to the church’s devotion to three basic observances.

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (Acts 2:42)

The same can be true in your life! Connecting with other Christians is vital to your faith journey.

Mission Hills Church, and many other churches, offer everyone an opportunity to grow in Christ through worship, sound Biblical teaching, and groups. If you’re not plugged into a church yet, consider stepping out of your comfort zone and trying out a bible study!

5. Keep A Journal of Your Daily Walk

I encourage you to keep a journal of your daily walk with Christ. Write down what verses you studied, what you’re praying for, and how God answered those prayers. You can also jot down what the pastor preached on each weekend and how it applies to your life.

As you journal you can look back and see how God has blessed you in your daily walk with Christ.

As we step into 2025, let’s commit to deepening our faith in God through humility, prayer, studying his Word, connecting with other believers, and reflecting on his work in our lives. Trusting God is a journey, and each step we take brings us closer to Jesus.

May this new year be one of growth, trust, and a deeper relationship with our Savior as we boldly ask him to “increase our faith.”

Want some friends to keep you accountable?

Consider joining a group! You were made for community and we want you to find a place to belong. Finding a group is one of the best ways to become like Jesus and join him on mission. Take your next steps into deeper, God-centered community.

✏️  AUTHOR CREDITS

This blog was written by the Mission Hills Church Communications Team.