How can we ensure Jesus remains the cornerstone in our daily decisions? The Cornerstone Identified: Luke 20:17 “But Jesus looked directly at them and asked, ‘Then what is the meaning of that which is written: “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone”?’” • Jesus asserts He is the literal, prophesied stone of Psalm 118:22, the load-bearing block on which every aspect of life must rest. • If the cornerstone is misplaced, the entire structure of our lives shifts out of alignment; if kept in place, everything holds true. Why the Cornerstone Matters • Ephesians 2:20-21—our lives are “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone.” • 1 Peter 2:6-7—the honor of stability belongs to those who believe; stumbling awaits those who don’t. • Luke 6:46-49—a house dug deep on rock withstands storms; one on sand crumbles. Daily decisions reveal which foundation we actually trust. Daily Habits That Keep Jesus Central • Start and end each day in His Word – Psalm 1:2—delight in the law “day and night.” – A brief morning reading aligns the heart before choices arise; an evening review resets any drift. • Pray for wisdom before choices, not after consequences – James 1:5—ask and He gives generously. – Quick, sincere prayers in the car, at the desk, or in the aisle invite His guidance in real time. • Speak His name over tasks – Colossians 3:17—“whatever you do…do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” – Say, “Lord, this email, this meeting, this purchase is Yours.” It reminds the mind whose agenda rules. • Memorize cornerstone promises – John 15:5; Matthew 6:33; Proverbs 3:5-6. – Rehearsing truth counters feelings and cultural pressure. Filtering Decisions Through Scripture 1. Is this action consistent with explicit command or principle? (2 Timothy 3:16-17) 2. Will it honor Christ’s reputation? (1 Corinthians 10:31) 3. Does it serve His kingdom priorities? (Matthew 6:33) 4. Can I do it with a clear conscience before God? (Romans 14:23) Staying Anchored in Community • Acts 2:42—steadfast devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, prayer. • Invite trusted believers to question your motives; mutual accountability keeps the cornerstone visible. • Corporate worship recenters hearts on His supremacy each week. Guarding Against Substitute Stones • Success, comfort, popularity, politics, even ministry can drift into load-bearing roles meant only for Christ. • Regular self-examination: “Who or what is shaping my schedule, spending, and emotional responses?” • Immediate repentance when another “stone” encroaches maintains structural integrity. Living Evidence of a Cornerstone Life • Peace under pressure—Philippians 4:6-7. • Consistent character when no one watches—Psalm 15. • Fruit that draws others to the same Rock—Galatians 5:22-23, Matthew 5:16. In Summary Keep Jesus where He belongs by choosing—day after ordinary day—to let His unchanging Word define reality, His Spirit empower obedience, and His glory set the agenda. Every decision becomes another brick aligned to the Cornerstone, building a life that stands forever. |
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