How can we apply the concept of "bases" to our faith journey today? Laying a Strong Faith Base “For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:11) • Every structure rests on a base; so does every life of faith. • Scripture identifies Jesus as the only true foundation—solid, unshakeable, sufficient (Isaiah 28:16; Matthew 7:24-25). Moving from Base to Base Think of the Christian life like advancing around the diamond: 1. First Base—Conversion – John 3:3: “Unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” – Repentance and trust in Christ place us safely on first. 2. Second Base—Growth in the Word – 1 Peter 2:2: “Like newborn infants, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.” – Daily reading, memorizing, and meditating on Scripture deepen our roots. 3. Third Base—Service and Stewardship – Ephesians 2:10: “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…” – Spiritual gifts, time, and resources are stewarded to bless others and honor God. 4. Home Plate—Glorification – Philippians 3:20-21 points to our ultimate homecoming when “He will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body.” Guarding the Bases • Hebrews 12:1 warns of “the sin that so easily entangles.” • Fences of accountability, local-church fellowship, and regular self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5) keep the enemy from stealing the base. Signals from the Coach • The Holy Spirit guides each step (Romans 8:14). • Prompt obedience to His leadings keeps us advancing rather than stranded between bases (Galatians 5:25). Celebrating Every Safe Arrival • Luke 15:7 shows heaven rejoicing over one sinner who repents—every movement forward matters. • Testimonies and shared victories encourage the whole team (Hebrews 10:24-25). Practical Takeaways – Revisit your base: verify that Christ, not career, relationships, or achievements, is truly foundational. – Identify which base you occupy right now and what obedience looks like to reach the next. – Surround yourself with teammates—believers who cheer, correct, and run alongside you. Keeping our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2), we round the bases with confidence, knowing the winning run has already been secured at the cross and the empty tomb. |
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