Matters Foundation
For no one can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
(1 Corinthians 3:11, NKJV)
Building constructors tell us, that when you look at the depth of the foundation, you get a sense of the size of the building coming up. Tall buildings stand on deep and strong foundations. If the foundation is not strong enough to carry the weight of the building on the ground, the building will collapse on its own weight or with little shaking of the ground. We see the same principle with trees, it is said that the roots of tall strong trees are deep into the ground. This is the only reason why the big trees will withstand strong winds which tend to break down other smaller trees. What matters is what is holding the building or the tree underground. The foundation is not visible, but it is of critical importance. This applies to our lives too, even in the natural and so the saying, that one is only as strong/powerful as the shoulders that he stands on. In the bible, we read Jesus talking of foundations in the parable of wise and foolish builders, one built on a rock while the other built on sand (Matthew 7:24-27). At the onset of wind and rain, the house built on sand fell down. The security of the house against the elements was all determined by its foundation.
Brethren, we are living in a shaky world and it seems everything that could be shaken is being shaken. When we look at what we knew to be routine and firm, we note the changes taking place including in weather pattersn, and I must say, it is at a fast speed. We hear more of people referring to the “good old days” when things were predictable. The time we are living in invites us as believers to reconnect with our foundation, the solid rock. A few weeks ago, we celebrated the resurrection of our Lord Jesus, arguably, the most exciting event of the church. When we think of the meaning of this resurrection, we know our faith and hope in God is secure, for our Lord rose again just as He had promised, we too will rise and live with Him in eternity. That is our sure hope which anchors us in our faith. Apostle Paul in writing our reference verse, tells us that there is no other foundation to be laid but Jesus Christ, none other can compare with the assurance that Jesus our Lord offers to us as believers. Whatever happens around us, our foundation is laid and is secure. What now remains is for us to build on it and Paul continues to tell us that what we build with, whether gold, silver, precious stones, wood or straw will be tested by fire (1 Corinthians 3:12-13).
Beloved, while our foundation is secure, what now matters is what we build on it and with what. It is true that things will keep changing and shaking, but we are consoled by our foundation, Jesus Christ, who said He will never leave us nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6-8), He has promised to be with us to end of the age (Matthew 28:20). As I write this, I am reminded that the bible tells us that all things will be shaken but we have a Kingdom which cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:26–28). The old hymn rings true, that on Christ alone our hope is built. Another hymn asks the all-powerful question, will your anchor hold? Regardless of our situation, a verse often quoted from Prophet Isaiah, encourages us to look to our God for our help, He will lift us up and renew our strength when the shakings around us leave us weak and weary (Isaiah 40:31).
Thoughts:
How strong is your foundation?
How firmly are you standing on the foundation?
What are you building with?