How can we ensure our spiritual foundations withstand trials, as advised in Ezekiel 13:11? The Warning of Ezekiel 13:11 “Therefore tell those who plaster it with whitewash that it will fall. There will be a deluge of rain, hailstones will fall, and a mighty wind will break it down.” (Ezekiel 13:11) • God exposes flimsy, surface-level religion—pretty on the outside, hollow underneath. • The storm is certain; only a solid, God-built structure remains standing. Identify Faulty Building Materials • Popular opinions that contradict Scripture (Colossians 2:8). • Religious activity without heartfelt obedience (Isaiah 29:13). • Secret sin and hypocrisy (Luke 12:1-2). • Self-reliance instead of Spirit dependence (Zechariah 4:6). Lay the Only True Foundation • “For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:11) • Submit to Christ’s lordship; salvation rests on His finished work alone. • Build every conviction on the literal, unchanging Word (Psalm 119:89). Reinforce with Daily Obedience • Hear and DO the Word—this is the wise builder who withstands flood and wind (Matthew 7:24-25). • Obedience proves love for Christ and secures fellowship (John 14:21). • Small, consistent acts of faithfulness strengthen the structure over time. Strengthen through Accountability and Community • Meet together, “encouraging one another… as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Invite trusted believers to inspect your life, speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). • Bear one another’s burdens; shared load means shared stability (Galatians 6:1-2). Stay Weather-Ready by the Spirit and Prayer • Pray “in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers.” (Ephesians 6:18) • Build yourself up in faith, “praying in the Holy Spirit.” (Jude 20-21) • The Spirit supplies power and discernment, sealing every joint of the wall. Inspect Regularly through Self-Examination and Repentance • “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.” (2 Corinthians 13:5) • Confess sin immediately; God’s forgiveness cleanses and restores (1 John 1:9). • Regular repentance prevents small cracks from widening under stress. Expect the Storms and Stand Firm • Trials refine genuine faith like fire refines gold (1 Peter 1:6-7). • Count it joy when tests come; endurance produces maturity (James 1:2-4). • Because God’s Word is true and literal, every promise of protection and victory is certain—nothing He secures can collapse. |
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