A foundation on the rock
Soon we’ll have neighbors! A new house is going up across the street, between daily showers of rain. The builders are focused on that all-important beginning, a foundation on the rock.
Jesus talked about the importance of a strong foundation of faith:
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” (Matthew 7:24-27 NIV)
When faith is washed away like sand
Have you experienced a loss of faith? did a powerful storm of life wash your faith away like sand in a deluge?
When my husband was first diagnosed with prostate cancer, I had confidence in his healing. He exhibited excellent health prior to the onset, was physically active, didn’t drink or smoke, and most of all, we prayed for healing. We trusted God to bring healing and restoration.
But God answered differently
In spite of the fervent prayers of many, cancer defeated my husband’s earthly body. I became angry, my faith took a stumble, and I cried out in despair to my God who I thought had deserted us.
Our Father’s restoration is complete
But God was with me throughout the long year of the slow moving medical profession, fast moving cancer, failed treatment, and the loss of Bob’s quality of life. Though my faith faltered, God’s care of both of us during the final, painful weeks of my husband’s life was ever present. God provided strength and perseverance for me to give this last gift of love to my husband–24/7 care in our home until the end.
Even though my faith was pummeled by the storm of cancer, God salvaged my foundation with the rock of His care and protection. Our loving Father healed Bob according to our Master’s plan, not mine. He restored my husband completely in His heavenly realm.
When our foundation is threatened
The builders use extra care in forming and constructing the foundation:
- Careful and accurate measurement
- Attention to detail in preparing the land and pouring the footing
- Using quality materials of blocks and mortar to create the wall portion of the foundation
- Following the direction of the boss, architect, and builder
We give careful attention to building and protecting our faith
Our relationship with our Lord is the key to growing our faith, building our trust in God, and putting faith into action.
Through Bible study, quiet time with our Lord, fellowship with other believers, praise and worship, we build our faith. Others help us on our journey with mentorship, faithful guidance, and wonderful role models.
Who positively influenced your foundation of faith? How can we have a positive impact on the faith walk of others?
By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 3:10-11)
I’m thankful for the people God has placed in my life that help me have a deep relationship with Him. Thank you for this reminder that His plan is always best. Have a blessed day! 🙂
Me, too, Melissa! He blesses us with role models, mentors, good listeners, and encouragers. I’m so thankful. I hope your back is much better and your week is filled with joy and sunshine.
Thank you for this lesson from the heart, Katherine. Praying for you.
Thank you, Diana. I’m grateful for your prayers. Wishing you peace and blessings.
Well stated, Katherine. Interestingly, my blog post for tomorrow speaks to this issue. Please let me know what you think.
I’m grateful for your encouragement, Tim. Missed you at our ACFW meeting–I hope the fish were biting! I’ll be watching for your blog. I know I’ll enjoy it. May God continue to bless you in His service.
I don’t think God is bothered at all by our questions or even by the negative emotions we sometimes exhibit as a result. I read the Psalms and see David going through many periods where he says, “Why?” Faith that isn’t tested isn’t strong. When we cry and question and come to the conclusion, once again, that God is good and just, His purpose in us is accomplished-not weakened. Thanks for sharing your heart and a part of your journey. Loss is difficult, and I don’t think we ever fully understand it this side of heaven. But God is always good.
Yes, Terri, God is always good. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I’m also comforted by David’s psalms. He went through so much in those early days of shepherding, supporting King Saul, leading the army, and then fleeing from Saul when the king turned on him. David’s words describe God’s faithfulness in times of trial. Thank you for your kindness and compassion. May God bless you.
I had a similar experience with my dad. I just knew God would heal him from a rare blood disease. He healed him in the same way as your husband. It took a while but I remembered His plan is perfect. In that process His presence never left me.
I know that must have been a painful time for you and your family, Jen. Thank you for sharing your journey and how God let you know He is forever faithful. Wishing you joy and blessings.
I’m thankful for the body of believers I have in my life. It is a blessing to have this asset in the spirit to help us in our faith. I also appreciate my online friends, like you and other writers who encourage me. More than once God lifts me up by the articles I read that relate to something I am going through. Thanks for sharing this insightful post, Katherine. Blessings!
Like you, Barbara, I’m so thankful for believers and wonderful role models who’ve helped guide our journey. Your description of how we support each other online is right on target. When I read the blog messages and devotions from our online friends, I am uplifted and blessed. Thank you for your encouragement and support, my friend. Peace and blessings!
Hugs and continued prayer. I needed to hear this reminder. I had similar feelings when cancer stole my wife from me. Thank God for a foundation in Christ.
I know you understand, Jim. Sending a hug your way as well. God’s love, compassion, and steadfast faith carry us through loss and sorrow. May God continue to bless you.
Thank you for sharing your story of loss and reminding us that we have a foundation on which we can stand. Im so thankful that He holds me together when I feel like falling apart.
You “hit the nail on the head,” Karen. In our trials, our loving Father holds us together, picks us up when we stumble, and carries us when we’re too weak for one more step. We are so blessed. Thank you for stopping by my blog. Wishing you joy and blessings.
Great way to look at building our house on the rock of Christ. I pray for your new neighbors. Thanks Katherine
Thank you for your encouragement and prayers, Yvonne. I’m looking forward to my our new neighbors!