One Gospel, One Foundation: Day 1
Day 1: Checking the Foundation
Devotional
Every construction project begins with a foundation inspection. A wise contractor knows that beautiful work above ground means nothing if the foundation below is compromised. Paul understood this principle when he traveled to Jerusalem after fourteen years of ministry. He needed to verify that the gospel foundation was solid and unified. In our spiritual lives, we face the same need for foundation inspection. The gospel isn't just our starting point—it's the bedrock upon which everything else is built. When we neglect to regularly examine and affirm this foundation, we risk building our faith on shifting sand. Paul's careful approach teaches us that checking our foundation isn't a sign of weakness or doubt. It's wisdom. He went to Jerusalem not because he lacked confidence in his message, but because he understood the critical importance of gospel unity. The stakes were too high to assume everything was fine. Today, we must approach our faith with the same intentionality. Are we building on the solid foundation of Christ's finished work, or have we allowed other things to creep in? Regular foundation checks protect us from spiritual collapse down the road.
Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus along with me.
I went up because of a revelation and set before them
(though privately before those who seemed influential) the gospel that I proclaim among the Gentiles,
in order to make sure I was not running or had not run in vain.' - Galatians 2:1-2
Reflection Question
What areas of your spiritual life might need a 'foundation inspection' to ensure they're built on the gospel rather than your own efforts?
“Before any walls go up in a construction project,
a good contractor gets down low and inspects the foundation.
It's important, because beautiful work done above the ground means nothing
if the foundation below it is compromised.” — Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Lord, help me regularly examine the foundation of my faith. Give me wisdom to build everything in my life on the solid rock of Your gospel truth.