BUILDING A FIRM SPIRITUAL FOUNDATION

The church has been here for the last ten years. A time comes to review and test our systems.

During the first five years, we had a strategic plan — and we evaluated what we had attained, re-assessed our progress, and set new goals and focus areas. Now, as the second strategic plan comes to an end, we enter the third stage — to test our structure and evaluate how we have been conducting our business and ministry.

Have we built a church that Jesus Christ would have desired of us?
What have we done with the hearts the Lord has entrusted to us for the last five years?

Can you stand and say, “I am a witness of the working of the Lord as a member of this congregation”?

As a Christian, have you been able to withstand the storms of life?
In the eyes of God, have you become a testament to His work in this church, or are you simply a member?
Who are you in this church?
How are you conducting your life as a Christian?

Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:24–27

This passage introduces the shift into the third strategic plan of our church. Unfortunately, it will come with changes that may affect us in one way or another, but we must remain enlightened and embrace this next phase.

How Strong Is Your Spiritual Foundation?

Only you can answer this question.
When is the best time to prepare for life’s challenges? Before they happen.

This text marks the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus contrasts two builders — one wise and one foolish. It serves as a summary and a warning for the entire sermon, emphasizing not only hearing Jesus’ words but also living by them.

There are those who build their lives on a solid foundation and those who build on shaky ground.

• The time to prepare for life’s disappointments and hurts is in advance — before they come.

• “For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock.” — Psalm 27:5

• Do not be deceived by appearances, titles, outward holiness, or gifts without a solid foundation. Life’s storms will expose what is true.

Building a Strong Faith in Jesus Christ to Withstand Life’s Challenges

1. Acknowledge that Jesus Is the Only and Sure Foundation

1 Corinthians 3:11 — “For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

In the words of Apostle Paul, any other basis for faith is unstable. That foundation will be tested by fire and may not withstand.
Paul was addressing divisions and factionalism within the church in Corinth. This analogy of a building presents Jesus as:

• Exclusive: There is no other foundation. Every area of your life — career, finances, family, business — must be built upon trust in Christ alone.

• Every spiritual building (life) will be tested — will it stand?

• Even at a personal level — “You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that — and shudder.” — James 2:19

2. Withstanding the Storms of Life

Matthew 7:25 — “The rain came down, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.”

3. Living Out Christian Values — Building Through Action

The strength of your foundation is demonstrated not just by your words, but by your actions.

Act on your faith by:

• Cementing your foundation: Read and obey God’s Word — it gives direction for life.

• Watering your foundation: Pray consistently to strengthen your spiritual pillars.

• Walking in love, humility, and compassion.

• Being fruitful.

• Living a life of discipline and spiritual maturity.

4. Your Foundation Determines Your Life as a Believer

Daniel 6: “Then Daniel distinguished himself … because an excellent spirit was in him.”

• Grow within a community of believers.

• Live a life of service.

• Share your faith.

• “And whatever you do, do it all in the name of the Lord.” — Colossians 3:17