Building a Solid Foundation

Read This: “For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what does it benefit a person if he gains the whole world but forfeits his life?” (Mat 16:25-26)

Think: Most of us are guilty of trying to buy security in one way or another. We buy insurance plans for all the “just in case” scenarios; we set money aside to make sure we’re taken care of in the future; we work hard to make enough money so we don’t have to worry—ever. And though we’ve all heard that money doesn’t buy happiness, it’s hard to really believe. In reality, sometimes it’s just easier to trust our paycheck than it is to depend on God.

Then something happens, like 9/11. Bank accounts don’t buffer us from real life. What difference did it make that day how much money you had? People from all walks of life lost loved ones. Across the nation everyone, from celebrities to the homeless, felt the ripple effects of senseless violence. In one morning, we all realized how vulnerable we are. Maybe today it’s a cancer diagnosis or a car accident.
Rich and poor alike are thrown into heart wrenching situations with little predictability.

But when the walls crumble and the dust settles, those who put their trust in the Lord are left standing. God promises us, “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you! Don’t be frightened, for I am your God! I strengthen you –yes, I help you –yes, I uphold you with my saving right hand!” (Is. 41:10). Because God is with us we can face whatever today brings; we understand that he alone hold the whole world in his hands. Restoration and healing will come, if not in this life than without doubt in the next. Therefore we have his peace in the midst of chaos, his strength in our weakness, and endless hope in what may seem to be a hopeless end. “For God alone I patiently wait; he is the one who delivers me. He alone is my protector and deliverer. He is my refuge; I will not be upended.” (Psalm 62:1-2)

Ask: What do you build your life around? Do the activities in your life reflect that? How can you come along side someone whose house is sinking in the sand?

Pray: Ask God to help you honestly reflect on your life and reveal any areas that may not be on solid ground. Spend time thanking him and praising him because he is the one true Rock.