Together, we are His house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the Cornerstone is Christ Jesus Himself. – Ephesians 2:20 NLT
A Firm Foundation
TobyMac’s song, "Cornerstone," from his ninth studio album, Life After Death, was birthed from the incredible pain of losing his son. As a grieving father and songwriter, he was inspired to pen these lyrics after the accidental drug overdose of his 21-year-old son Truett. By standing on their Cornerstone—Jesus—for peace and strength, God brought their family much needed comfort as they passed through a valley of crushing heartache.
The lyrics, “But I’m still standing on the only Rock I know You’re my cornerstone,” reflect TobyMac’s dependence on Jesus during his time of utter crisis. This line resonates with the words of the apostle Paul, who wrote, “The Cornerstone is Christ Jesus Himself” (Ephesians 2:20 NLT).
The chorus line resonates with the words of the apostle Paul, who wrote, “The Cornerstone is Christ Jesus Himself” (Ephesians 2:20 NLT).
In ancient times, the cornerstone was a crucial part of a building. It was typically the largest and most carefully crafted stone that the workers built the structure on and around. It was also the most stable and immovable part of the whole building. This picture of Jesus as the Cornerstone is found throughout the Bible. (Psalm 118:22; Isaiah 28:16; 1 Peter 2:6)
We need a firm foundation to stand on amidst the tumultuous times we live in. Media outlets instill fear and uncertainty by headlining perceived threats of artificial intelligence, climate change, financial crisis, and political turmoil. TobyMac’s words, “All of the ground is sinking sand,” describe the reality of these daily doses of negative news. But as we journey through life, facing uncertainties, we are encouraged by TobyMac’s assuring words: “You’re the only One that I will build my life on; through it all, You remain.” Jesus is our Cornerstone!
Five Ways Scripture Says We Can Stand on Jesus as Our Cornerstone and Firm Foundation
1. When we feel weary from carrying heavy burdens on our hearts, He invites us to lay them at His feet and rest in His promises. (Matthew 28:11)
2. When we feel overwhelmed with worry, He encourages us to cast our cares on Him because He cares for us. (1 Peter 5:7)
3. When we feel lonely, He promises us that He will always be with us, even to the end of the age. (Matthew 28:20)
4. When our budget is stretched to the limit, He reminds us He will supply our needs. (Philippians 4:19)
5. When we cannot understand life’s tragedies, He assures us He will ultimately use it for His glory and our good. (Romans 8:28)
In the final refrain of Cornerstone, TobyMac closes with these words of assurance: “You are the only Rock I stand on.” When the waves of adversity crash into our lives, we remain standing if our foundation is built on Jesus. Because He is our firm foundation, we can boldly engrave His proclamation deep within: “Take heart, because I have overcome the world (John 16:33 NLT).
Dig Deeper
1. Which of the five points mentioned above do you most need to focus on right now? Write out the Scripture so you can read and meditate on it at least five times this week.
2. Take some time this week to write down God’s promises, found in His Word, that will help you stand firm on the foundation of Jesus.
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