21DOP: Day 4
Day 4: How do I build a foundation that lasts? (Part 1)
Houses are under warranty for a short period of time, giving the owner an “out” should issues arise. Well-respected builders with solid reputations ensure that every area of construction proves stable and solid over time, long past the warranty stage. The most solid structures are built with the right materials, using an expert contractor, who knows the best place to begin and how to create quality craftsmanship all the way through the process. A thorough builder does not skimp on labor or materials, paying attention to every detail of the building process.
Likewise, to build a strong faith foundation, we must use the best materials, (the Word of God), the right place to grow (the local church), and the best contractor (the Holy Spirit), to oversee the process. Other faith leaders and mentors will help us along the way, but each of us, ultimately, must make the right decisions to maximize the growth in our faith journey.
1 Corinthians 3 tells us that a lasting foundation requires care and intentionality. With Jesus as our foundation, we are reminded in verses 12-15: “If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man’s work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.”
Will our faith building process stand the ultimate tests ahead?
What could be done today to improve our faith building process?
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to be mindful of the tools I need to build my faith. Help me use the best materials and anchor myself in a healthy support system, in order that I may withstand any challenge ahead. Show me what else I can do to build a firm and lasting foundation. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Houses are under warranty for a short period of time, giving the owner an “out” should issues arise. Well-respected builders with solid reputations ensure that every area of construction proves stable and solid over time, long past the warranty stage. The most solid structures are built with the right materials, using an expert contractor, who knows the best place to begin and how to create quality craftsmanship all the way through the process. A thorough builder does not skimp on labor or materials, paying attention to every detail of the building process.
Likewise, to build a strong faith foundation, we must use the best materials, (the Word of God), the right place to grow (the local church), and the best contractor (the Holy Spirit), to oversee the process. Other faith leaders and mentors will help us along the way, but each of us, ultimately, must make the right decisions to maximize the growth in our faith journey.
1 Corinthians 3 tells us that a lasting foundation requires care and intentionality. With Jesus as our foundation, we are reminded in verses 12-15: “If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man’s work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.”
Will our faith building process stand the ultimate tests ahead?
What could be done today to improve our faith building process?
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to be mindful of the tools I need to build my faith. Help me use the best materials and anchor myself in a healthy support system, in order that I may withstand any challenge ahead. Show me what else I can do to build a firm and lasting foundation. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
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