But how do we really develop a foundation? For learning to play the piano, I listed a common sequence of steps in the previous day: notes, fingering, scales, technique, and ultimately expression. Building a godly foundation is not always so straightforward. There is a similar list of steps commonly mentioned for becoming a stronger Christian: reading the Bible, memorizing scripture, being mentored by and fellowshipping with other Christians. Some steps are simple in concept (reading the Bible), and some steps are complex (developing goodness, self-control, perseverance). And like that final step of learning to play the piano with expression, a Christian can often struggle with finding a deeper relationship with God.
But we don’t have to take on the enormous task of becoming like Christ all by ourselves. Not only is God willing to help us, we simply cannot do it without him. If we could, then there would have been no reason for Jesus to come to Earth and die for our sins.
Most people learn to play the piano with a teacher. For our spiritual learning, God is our teacher. He is faithful to help us grow closer to him. Through many methods, God reaches out to us, and continues to build upon our foundation of faith and trust in him. God does not teach everyone in the same way, and our personal walk with God is often just that – very personal. But He is constantly working with us and through us to develop us into the person He has created us to be.
But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. ... May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.
2 Thessalonians 3:3, 5