As one of Jesus’ most quoted and retold parables, we learn about the wisdom of building on a firm foundation. Jesus shares the story during his Beatitudes message, featured in the gospel Matthew 7:24-2. The parable gives an example of the perils of building one's house on the sand versus the rock, which is a firm, steady, never wavering foundation. Many believe Jesus is referring to our spiritual relationships, our faith here. We are wise who build our faith or spiritual lives on Jesus and His saving grace. We are fools who put our hope on the sand or our own efforts and build our lives there, only to have our confidence swept away at the first sign of rain or trouble.

The following are some specific verses that outline not only the importance of faith but explain ways to build that all-important faith up to what it should be, a firm foundation that will never waver no matter how the rains may come or the waves may pummel.

LAMENTATIONS 3:22-23

“Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning. Great is Your faithfulness.”

The above verse in Lamentations was penned by the prophet Jeremiah turning a time of national mourning and grief. The book’s title, Lamentations actually comes from the word “lament,” implying that there were loud cries of anguish and pain coming from the people in Jerusalem. While much of the book consists of woes and despair, this particular chapter offers a measure of hope to the people. Today, we too can have hope just like the people of Jerusalem all those years ago. We can cling to the promise that we will not be consumed or destroyed, because of God’s love and that His grace and mercy for us will renew each morning.

Hebrews 10:23 

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.”

Many times, on this earth that is fallen and sin-ridden, it seems like there is no hope, nothing to look forward to at all. Thankfully, because of Christ, we have been given a promise, which is our daily hope. We put our faith in Christ, and He is faithful to not only save us from eternal punishment, but He’s faithful with regard to helping us live our daily lives as well.

1 John 5:14–15

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: That if we ask anything according to His will, He will hear us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him.”

On the surface this verse can seem a little hard to believe. After all, we all know people who are suffering in the world, good people, who deserve better, but they are facing death or pain and grief. However, as we can see in this verse, just because God isn’t choosing to heal them of their sickness or take away their difficulty here on earth doesn’t mean He doesn’t hear them or care for them. Instead, it might simply imply He is choosing to answer their prayers differently than they prefer. As believers, we can have confidence that God does hear us and does care about each and every aspect of our lives.

Matthew 19:26 

“Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’”

God makes many seemingly impossible things possible, which can include healing people from devastating diseases, or providing a way of redemption to a lost and dying world.

1 Peter 5:7 

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”

Anxiety and depression rates are sky-high right now, especially with all the uncertainty. Thankfully, as believers, we can cast away that anxiety and let Christ bear it for us. No need to worry!

Isaiah 41:10

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

This is such an encouraging promise, especially in the times of uncertainty like we are currently living. Those in the faith don't have to fear or be dismayed, no matter what they might be facing.

Hebrews 11:1

“Now faith is the confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

We can’t see faith, but oh how it alters everything we do! Because of faith, we have hope and assurance! Faith gives us the ability to keep moving even when the world seems to be crumbling in on us. It gives us a reason to get up each day, a purpose for living.

Exodus 14:13-14

“Moses answered the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand firm, and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still.’”

Many times when we are struggling, being attacked, feeling depressed or sad, we want to fight back, attack what is coming against us. This verse explains that we don’t have to fight for ourselves because we serve a mighty God Who will fight for us, we need only be still!!!

Matthew 17:20

“He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, Move from here to there and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’”

A mustard seed is one of the most diminutive seeds there is, but it produces a strong, stout tree. Our faith is like that seed. It might be small sometimes, but it can grow into something formidable.

Keep The Faith

Another way to be reminded of your faith and its importance in your life daily is to purchase an item from Love in Faith. Choosing a product with an uplifting message, such as the verses listed above, will encourage you to remain strong in your faith!