Session 11

How to be ready for every season of life

From Psalms: A 28-Day Devotional

When we go through rough times in our lives, we often seek advice from friends, family, books, a counselor, or even the media. Sometimes, that advice can go a long way. Other times, it seems to make sense, but we’re left feeling empty.

We've all been there. Even advice that works for a while cannot sustain us for the long haul.

Whether you are in a good season or going through hard times, it is important to build your life's foundation on something that lasts. How else will we overcome hardships when they come?

As Christians, we still face hard times. This can be a scary reality to face. However, Psalm 1 says we can flourish and not whither. When we build our foundation on God’s truth, by reading the Bible and getting to know our heavenly Father, we become like a tree planted by the water. Our roots will be so deep and healthy that we’ll produce fruit during the good times and be sustained through the bad times—just like a strong tree stands through the winter (Psalm 1:3). 

God promises to keep watch over and protect those who hold His truth close to their hearts (Psalm 1:6). He sustains us through the tough times. Anything else we build our lives on will not hold in life's storms, and we’ll be “like chaff that the wind blows away” (Psalm 1:4).

So, consider where your foundation lies. Are you seeking answers from friends, TV, the Internet? Or, are you standing firm on the Word of God—the truth that gives us freedom and strength to stand through any storm we face?

Reflect:

• What is your foundation built on? Who or what do you rely on in the good times and the bad?
• What is one step you can take today to build your life on the truth of God's Word? Consider memorizing an encouraging verse or commit to reading your Bible every day.
• Who in your life encourages with the truth of the Bible? Maybe it's time to join a NewSpring Group and get to know other Christians who are committed to following Jesus, too.