Standing on a Firm Foundation

Shortly after Jesus miraculously fed a multitude with few provisions, He traveled with His disciples a great distance to a northern region of Israel. This hike took several days over dusty and difficult terrain. This region was surrounded by multiple pagan gods, spiritual darkness, turmoil, brutality, domination by Roman government and King Herod.  When Jesus arrived in the villages of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, ” What are people saying about who the Son of Man is?” They replied, ” Some say He is John the Baptist, some say Elijah, some Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.” He pressed them, “And how about you? Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter said, You’re the Christ, the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus came back, ” God bless you Simon, son of Jonah! You didn’t get that answer out of books or from teachers. My Father in heaven, God Himself let you in on the secret of who I really am. And now I’m going to tell you who you really are. You are Peter, a rock. This is the rock on which I will put together My church, a church so expansive with energy that not even the gates of hell will be able to keep it out. Matthew 16:13-18MSG.  In this season, many have been tested, taken to the farthest region of faith and have been stretched to the limit while enduring pressures of every kind. Very often, there have been times of doubt, discouragement, disappointment when confronted with unexpected circumstances. For faithful disciples today, as you face difficult, confusing or dark times, Who do you say Jesus is? This question remains to be the greatest one you can ever face. If you can believe that Jesus is the Christ who built His church, then the gates of hell cannot prevail against it.  Be strong, very courageous, meditate on God's word and continue standing fast on the firm foundation established by Christ over 2000 years ago. (Psalm 127:1,2; Ephesians 2:19; Colossians 1:9-14; 1Peter 2:5)  Let the wisdom and knowledge of Christ have the preeminence as you persevere through challenging situations along life's journey. Having done all you can to stand, have faith in God, being fully persuaded that He is able to keep you standing through every circumstance. Fight the good fight of faith, earnestly contend for the faith that was once entrusted to the early Christians. You have been called and chosen to declare the glory and sovereignty of God, ‘For Such a Time as This.’ Grace and Peace be multiplied to you. +MEA