» If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do ? « Psalm 11:3
Being declared righteous is a good thing, as we are made righteous through the work of the cross; however, it is essential to continue building on a solid foundation. Here, it is not a matter of questioning Yeshua, who is the solid foundation, but rather the focus is on us, who must build our relationship with Him in depth. In the Christian walk, sincerity and good intentions are not enough; it is essential to ensure that one is anchored on a solid foundation.
The foundation is the base, the essential element upon which everything else rests. It consists of a set of principles on which a system is based or a solid reason that justifies the reality of something. The foundation is what comes first; it is our support, our anchor point.
In the Christian walk, the foundation symbolizes the laws, principles, teachings, and structure that uphold our faith. Before building anything, it is essential to ensure that we have the appropriate foundation. In construction, the type of building determines the foundation, and the foundation determines the type of building. For example, a two-story building does not require the same foundation as a three-story building.
Therefore, it is important not to compare ourselves with others, but rather that each person examines their own life and looks upon the Lord. For the foundation is first and foremost personal. We do not seek a foundation to please others.
Let us examine Yeshua’s teaching on the Foundation:
» Whoever comes to me, hears my words, and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a person building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a person who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed, and its destruction was complete. » Luke 6:47-49
This passage reveals two types of builders: one with a solid foundation and one without. Outwardly, their houses looked similar, but the floods revealed that one lacked a foundation. These two builders illustrate the Christian walk: some take the time to build patiently, ensuring a solid foundation, while others rush, filled with confidence but without real support.
We live in a time when many rush to build without taking the time to lay a solid foundation. Often, we want to build our lives, our projects, or our relationships on superficial bases, seeking speed or the admiration of others. However, as soon as trials come, we are quickly shaken: criticisms frustrate us, and struggles make us retreat. The lack of foundation exposes us to failure because we neglected to build with the Lord. One of the greatest dangers in the Christian walk is wanting to build for the Lord but without Him.
As long as trials don’t intervene, everything seems stable. But it’s the foundation that supports us through storms. Without a foundation, we are easily swept away. Many had started their journey well, but because they hadn’t taken the time to root themselves, they went back to their old ways, even worse than before.
Let’s now delve deeper into what a true spiritual foundation entails:
1. The Foundation is Deep: A foundation isn’t laid at the surface; it requires deep digging. We stop digging when we reach the Rock, for it is He who supports the entire structure. A foundation not built on Yeshua will not hold. It takes time to develop an intimate life with the Messiah, a deep connection with Him.
2. The Foundation is Hidden: The foundations of a building are invisible, revealed only in times of testing. Similarly, our spiritual foundation is our hidden life before the Lord, our intimacy with Him. The external beauty of a house does not guarantee its strength; it’s the foundation that ensures its solidity. Appearances are deceiving; only Elohim sees the heart.
« But YHWH said to Samuel: ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. YHWH does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but YHWH looks at the heart.’ » 1 Samuel 16:7
3. The Foundation Must Be Solid: The foundation bears the entire weight of the building and withstands the pressures it faces. The heavier the load, the more robust the foundation must be.
« In the first year of King Cyrus, King Cyrus issued a decree concerning the house of Elahh (God) in Jerusalem: ‘Let this house be rebuilt as a place to present sacrifices, and let its foundations be laid solidly to support its weight. Its height will be sixty cubits, and its length sixty cubits. » Ezra 6:3
Having a deep, hidden, and solid foundation means digging deeply to find the rock. Digging involves removing what is superfluous, shedding the flesh, and dying to oneself. As we strip away these layers, Yeshua grows within us. Without dying to oneself, there is no power of resurrection. Living a deep life with the Lord requires daily shedding, seeking His interests above our own. By accepting His life in place of ours, we become unshakeable, built upon the Rock.
« Truly, truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. » John 12:24
The times to come will be challenging; only those with a true foundation will stand firm. Those who have built without concern for their foundation will be shocked by sudden ruin. It is therefore time to seek a solid foundation. When we build on the true foundation, our work will endure. In a time when everyone is rushing and each person wants to accomplish something, it is essential for the disciple of the Messiah to seek an inner and hidden life. The disciple must first ensure they are firmly established in the Master and lay down their life on the altar, in order to be able to stand firm in the evil day.
Our foundation is Yeshua Mashiah; He is discovered through a life rooted in spiritual depth. In our faith journey, a solid foundation means developing a life deeply anchored in the Lord’s truth and presence. Building a strong foundation is about constructing our lives with the Lord and for His purpose.
« For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Yeshua the Messiah. » 1 Corinthians 3:11
Shalom,
Y. Gerol