Luke 6:46-49

God has ways of shaking the world when He is at work. He literally caused the ground to quake when Jesus died on the cross, and Hebrews 12:26 describes a time still future when the earth will undergo a similar display of His power and presence.

Likewise in our present day, He often lets the foundations of our world be shaken--whether political alliances, financial systems, or other forms of human security. Then we can see the flimsiness of the structures on which we've based our pride and hopes. Individual lives are also often shaken when a family experiences crisis or a marriage begins to unravel. If we have built on the fragile cornerstones of human wisdom, pride, and conditional love, things may look good for a while, but a weak foundation causes collapse when storms hit.

While adversity affects everyone, we can have peace in knowing that God always has a greater purpose when He allows upheaval in our world. Hard times can also shake believers out of apathy and self-focus, reminding us not to trust in ourselves or the temporary structures of this world. There is only one secure foundation: a genuine, deep relationship with Jesus Christ, which will carry you through any and all turmoil. No matter what storms are raging all around, you'll stand firm if you stand on His love.

It's not enough for believers to simply enjoy the security of knowing that our "house" is built on a solid foundation. As God's ambassadors on earth, we have a respon-sibility to extend His compassion to people whose lives are crumbling. Be a living message of hope to those around you today.

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