Life throws a lot our way, doesn't it? It's easy to get caught up in the daily grind, chasing after temporary fixes and fleeting successes. But as I've been reflecting lately, it's become clearer than ever that what truly sustains us through every season is a solid foundation in faith and a deep commitment to aligning our priorities with God's will. This isn't a "one-and-done" kind of thing; it's a continuous, ongoing process that requires regular self-reflection and an open heart to God's guidance.
Think about it like building a house. Would you ever build on shifting sand? Of course not! You'd want a solid rock foundation that can withstand any storm. Our spiritual lives are no different.
Here’s something that Jesus Himself said;
Matthew 7:24-25 NLT [24] “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. [25] Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.
So, how do we build that rock-solid foundation?
First, it starts with hearing God's word and, crucially, putting it into practice. It’s not enough to just read the Bible or listen to a sermon. We need to actively apply what we learn to our lives. This means seeking wisdom, understanding His commandments, and making choices that reflect His character. James reminds us; to not just listen to the work because if you listen only you are fooling yourself but you should do what it says. "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."
James 1:22-24 NLT [22] But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. [23] For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. [24] You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.
Next, it's about aligning our priorities with God's will. This can be challenging in a world that constantly pulls us in different directions. We're bombarded with messages about what we "should" pursue – wealth, status, fleeting pleasures. But when we prioritize God, everything else falls into place. He promises to provide for our needs and guide us in all things
Matthew 6:31-33 NLT [31] “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ [32] These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. [33] Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
This journey of faith is also about regular self-reflection. We need to honestly assess where we are, what's taking up our time and energy, and if those things truly honor God.
2 Corinthians 13:5 NLT Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine. Test yourselves. Surely you know that Jesus Christ is among you; if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith.
This self-examination isn't about condemnation, but about growth and refinement.
And finally, it requires openness to God's guidance. This means prayer, listening, and being willing to be led even when it's uncomfortable or unfamiliar. God speaks to us in many ways – through His Word, through prayer, through other believers, and through the quiet promptings of the Holy Spirit.
Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. [6] Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Remember, building a strong foundation is a continuous process. It's not about being perfect, but about consistently seeking Him, repenting when we fall short, and trusting in His grace. The rewards – peace, purpose, and an unshakeable hope – are truly invaluable.
Think about it like building a house. Would you ever build on shifting sand? Of course not! You'd want a solid rock foundation that can withstand any storm. Our spiritual lives are no different.
Here’s something that Jesus Himself said;
Matthew 7:24-25 NLT [24] “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. [25] Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.
So, how do we build that rock-solid foundation?
First, it starts with hearing God's word and, crucially, putting it into practice. It’s not enough to just read the Bible or listen to a sermon. We need to actively apply what we learn to our lives. This means seeking wisdom, understanding His commandments, and making choices that reflect His character. James reminds us; to not just listen to the work because if you listen only you are fooling yourself but you should do what it says. "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."
James 1:22-24 NLT [22] But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. [23] For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. [24] You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.
Next, it's about aligning our priorities with God's will. This can be challenging in a world that constantly pulls us in different directions. We're bombarded with messages about what we "should" pursue – wealth, status, fleeting pleasures. But when we prioritize God, everything else falls into place. He promises to provide for our needs and guide us in all things
Matthew 6:31-33 NLT [31] “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ [32] These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. [33] Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
This journey of faith is also about regular self-reflection. We need to honestly assess where we are, what's taking up our time and energy, and if those things truly honor God.
2 Corinthians 13:5 NLT Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine. Test yourselves. Surely you know that Jesus Christ is among you; if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith.
This self-examination isn't about condemnation, but about growth and refinement.
And finally, it requires openness to God's guidance. This means prayer, listening, and being willing to be led even when it's uncomfortable or unfamiliar. God speaks to us in many ways – through His Word, through prayer, through other believers, and through the quiet promptings of the Holy Spirit.
Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. [6] Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Remember, building a strong foundation is a continuous process. It's not about being perfect, but about consistently seeking Him, repenting when we fall short, and trusting in His grace. The rewards – peace, purpose, and an unshakeable hope – are truly invaluable.
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