We should all know that a building is only as strong as the foundation that supports it. The foundation determines the possibilities for the size and height of the structure. A beautiful building that has a weak foundation will collapse in time.
Unfortunately, we live in a society of ever-changing foundations. We are bombarded daily with “new truth.” These so-called truths come from the world of science, politics, Hollywood, Wall Street, climate “experts” and medicine.
Can we build our lives on the shifting “truths” and feelings of society? Obviously not, but many do so.
For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. (1Cor. 3:11)
The only foundation that can withstand the whims of society is Jesus. But not just knowledge about Jesus or good Bible doctrine. Too often we substitute knowledge about God for relationship WITH God. Even right knowledge can’t replace hearing Him on a daily basis. Only by hearing Him will there be a foundation that can stand the onslaught of the world’s attacks.
One way to check our foundation is to notice how we react to circumstances, bad news, difficult people, the weather, etc. Our reactions come from our foundation. Not from the foundation we “think” we have, but the one from which we are truly living.
What is your response to a negative doctor’s report? That is your foundation. What is your response to changes in your work environment? How do you handle people who may say ugly things to you? In all of these circumstances, our true foundation is revealed. We may say that Jesus is the rock of our life, but do we act like it?
If the doctor gives you a bad report, does the Word of God rise up within you? Or, do you feel deflated and helpless? Some of my greatest victories happened when I heard a negative doctor’s report and the Spirit of God rose up within me and said “no!” My foundation wasn’t just doctrine. I was fully persuaded by God’s goodness and God’s promises. My foundation gave me the victory.
“He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock.” (Luke 6:48)
Barry Bennett
Lively Hope 