For a number of months I have been hearing “Back to the foundations.” It is certainly important to have a solid foundation when the storms of life manifest. There are many enlightening teachings that help us understand the Bible, the cultural times, Greek and Hebraic studies which make the word come alive, the Prophetic and Supernatural and His glory; but when I look back to what has really sustained me through it all, it has been Jesus, Holy Spirit and my relationship with God.
As we walk out this very challenging season, some say we are moving toward apocalyptic times, which is actually true to some extent. Death and destruction entered in the Garden of Eden, and the world has been crying out for Christ’s return since Golgotha, when he was placed on that cross and martyred for us. So historically, the world has revolved with turmoil: wars, rumors of wars, genocide and all forms of evil. Each generation has its’ own victories and failures to walk through. Each person has the freedom to choose their own path.
So how do we live and sustain ourselves through hardship and rugged times?
1) First we begin to realize we have really not sustained ourselves. We flow through each day “doing life” when we begin to realize God has sustained us. You can look back and see where you may have been surrounded by evil, or maybe you didn’t even know he kept you, but you made it through. Testimonies abound of his sustaining love and power.
2) Look to our forefathers and learn from their actions and how they survived hardship. They learned to live with less and were thankful for the provision they received. They disciplined themselves in their finances, budgeting and tithing, prioritizing between needs and wants. They lived more simply where a handshake or a person’s word was sacred. And when a person or event let them down, they determined in their heart to forgive and move forward committed. They learned to savor each day as a gift from God and rejoiced in His goodness and provision, even when it was meager. They chose to trust God and believe in him and his provision. Their foundational hope was in him, his word and their relationship.
Be encouraged for God rides upon the storms of life and Jesus continues to say to you:
“Beloved, return to me for I am the Bread of Life”
“I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.”
“Do not fear. Do not let your heart be troubled.”
“I will never leave you or forsake you.”
“Peace I leave with you.”
“Come unto me, you who are heavy laden and I will give you rest.”
“Put your trust in me.”
“There is nothing you can do to make me love you any more than when I created you.”
“Come boldly to my throne of Grace.”
“I will provide all your needs.”
“I have forgiven you.”
“Your sins are forgiven.”
“Be of good cheer and do not be afraid.”
“I will be with you always, even unto the end of the earth.”
“I have made a place for you in paradise.”
“I have given you eternal life.”
“When you are weak, I am strong.”
“I desire for you to know me and I am waiting for you.”
Father, in uncertain times you shine bright. Your light bids us to come to you and be comforted, guided and encouraged. Please bring your light to your creation, your people and this nation as you bring us back to the foundation of knowing you. Strengthen and guide us to be repairers of the breach and to rebuild the ancient ruins.
“For this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” John 17:3.
