“When the rains fell, and the flood came, with fierce winds beating against the house, it stood firm because of its strong foundation.”

Matthew 7:25

In uncertain times, we turn to the things which are foundational in our life to give us stability and hope. In times when unexpected and sudden changes happen to our world, we often find the things we daily cling to and surround ourselves with stripped away. When this happens, we either fall away also or hold fast to that which is deeper, stronger and more sure than we are ourselves.

2020 was a year that shook the world’s population in many ways. Not just the threat of the pandemic but the threat of losing our civil liberties as well. For some of the world, this was already a way of life. However, in most developed countries this was new. For many, it felt like our world and everything we knew was being shaken and tossed around, even torn away. We fought to maintain a sense of freedom and well-being. Every time we thought we had an ‘understanding’ about a situation, the situation changed again. 

These constant changes and disruptions to our lives began to cause us to look deeper, to determine what is truly important and identify what we cannot live without. The answers to that are as diverse as humanity is.  Many looked to their loved ones and held them close, others quickly worked to secure their financial well-being, while sadly others hoarded everything they could get their hands on in fear of not having enough. 

For us personally, our world changed dramatically. It felt like it came to a screeching stop since the bulk of what we do is travel (domestically and abroad), and be with people in large groups (indoors and outdoors). Suddenly what was ‘normal’ to us was stripped away and everything was different, forcing us to do life and ministry in a new way. These are the moments we cling to our foundation, to what is sure and unchanging. In the midst of the shaking and tossing, we stood firm in our belief that God loves us (1 John 4:19). God was with us (Psalm 145:18,19). He would not leave us or forsake us (Deut 31:6). He would protect us (Psalm 91:4). And He will provide for us (Phil 4:19). He was and is faithful to us and our children in all these ways. 

When you have a foundation of knowing the One who formed the worlds, who pulled you from the miry clay (Psalm 40:2) and set you upon a rock (Matthew 16:18), you will be safe in a world that is not. You will be secure in a world that is experiencing upheaval. You will have faith in a world ruled by fear. 

My friend, as we enter this new year, the storm may not be over. The changes and unexpected challenges are likely to continue. I pray that you will have a strong foundation in the One Who loves you most. He gave all when His Son came, died, and rose again so that you can know Him for yourself, without the separation of sin. He wants to show Himself strong in your life and hold you through the storm. I pray you will allow Him to be your foundation.

Love and blessing to you friend!

Rachel

They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green.

Jeremiah 17:8