How can we apply the principles of strength and stability in our faith? Foundational Verse 1 Kings 7:21 – “He set up the pillars at the portico of the temple; he set up the right pillar and named it Jakin, and set up the left pillar and named it Boaz.” What the Two Pillars Tell Us • Jakin—“He establishes”: a reminder that God alone sets us securely in place. • Boaz—“In Him is strength”: a declaration that our power comes from Him, not from ourselves. Together, they picture a life stabilized and empowered by the Lord—exactly what we need for unwavering faith. Strength: Living in His Might • Ephesians 6:10 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” • Isaiah 40:31 – Those who wait on the Lord “will gain new strength.” • 2 Corinthians 12:9–10 – Christ’s power “is perfected in weakness.” Practical take-aways: – Depend on His Spirit rather than willpower. – Feed on Scripture daily; it is “the sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:17). – Choose obedience quickly; strength grows as we exercise it. Stability: Standing Firm on the Rock • Psalm 16:8 – “I will not be shaken.” • Psalm 1:3 – Like a tree planted by streams, the stable believer “yields its fruit in season.” • Matthew 7:24-25 – Building on the rock withstands storms. • Colossians 2:6-7 – “Having been firmly rooted… established in the faith.” How to cultivate stability: – Anchor decisions to clear biblical truth rather than shifting feelings. – Practice spiritual “deep breathing”: pause, recall a promise, and rest in it. – Keep short accounts with God—confession restores footing. Practical Ways to Build Strength and Stability • Daily rhythm of Word and prayer—non-negotiable nourishment. • Scripture memorization—load your heart with ready-made pillars. • Regular fellowship—mutual reinforcement (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Serving others—strengthens spiritual muscles (1 Peter 4:10-11). • Sabbath rest—pausing weekly declares God, not work, holds life together. Nurturing Pillar-Like Faith in Community • Acts 2:42 – The early church “devoted themselves” to teaching, fellowship, and prayer. • Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness; hearing them cements confidence. • Bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2); stability multiplies when carried together. Keeping Our Eyes on the Greater Temple • 1 Peter 2:5 – We are “living stones” being built into a spiritual house. • Ephesians 2:20-22 – Christ Himself is the cornerstone, guaranteeing perfect alignment. • Revelation 3:12 – Overcomers will be made “a pillar in the temple of My God.” Knowing our eternal placement in Hishouse secures present-day courage. In Summary Like Jakin and Boaz, our lives testify: God establishes; God empowers. Remain rooted in His Word, draw on His strength, stay connected to His people, and you will stand tall and unshakable, pillars displaying His glory. |
    |