Monday, July 17, 2023
A few years ago, I was dealing with friend issues. I was in middle school, which is always full of drama and strong emotions. Since I went to a small school, about 40 kids in each grade, I struggled to find other people to hang out with. I thought I had strong relationships with my friends, but I was frequently coming home in tears, unsure of what to do.
As I have matured, I’ve learned that friendships, jobs, lifestyles, and even our beliefs can shift. It’s no wonder that many teens and adults struggle with anxiety, as everything in this world is at risk of changing. Every action or decision could cause something already precarious to fall apart. Family, church, even our convictions about the Bible can crumble away until we are left in a heap of rubble.
Thankfully, there is one person who never changes.
Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Our faith is built on what we believe, those ideas and concepts we take to heart and trust the most. Jesus is the only foundation that will never crumble. When our hopes, dreams, beliefs, and desires fall apart, Jesus remains strong. Nothing we can do can change who he is—the one who frees and forgives us.
Colossians 1:13-14
13 For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, 14 who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.
As Christians, this is our core belief—the explanation for why we have decided to build our lives upon Jesus. Jesus is the one who loves us, who fights for us, who saves us. This is what our faith relies on.
When relationships fracture, our goals seem unattainable, or we can’t make sense of our feelings, Jesus is our firm foundation. When the church does something unexpected, a family member messes up, or health problems get in the way, Jesus is our firm foundation. Those changes won’t impact who he is.
When we build our lives on things like family, friends, or careers, everything we work toward is at risk of crumbling. However, when we trust Jesus—when we stand firm on him—nothing can shake or pull us away.
Colossians 1:23
But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don’t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. The Good News has been preached all over the world, and I, Paul, have been appointed as God’s servant to proclaim it.
Questions:
Where have you seen change in your life? What sorts of things do you tend to make your foundation? How can you make Jesus your firm foundation today?
Next Steps:
Try to find a prayer rhythm to help you draw closer to Jesus. Pray between chapters of a good book, at every red light, or while you brush your teeth. Get to know who he is, so you can have a strong foundation when change comes.
Prayer:
Father, change is scary. It is unpredictable, and it can happen in the blink of an eye. Thank you for never changing, no matter what I say or do. Help me build my life on you—my rock, my foundation, the Alpha and Omega. You have brought me through yesterday. Please continue to guide me today, tomorrow, and always. I love you. Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Colossians 1:23
But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don’t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. The Good News has been preached all over the world, and I, Paul, have been appointed as God’s servant to proclaim it.