How Firm a Foundation (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 796)
1 How firm a foundation, O saints of the Lord,
is laid for your faith in Christ Jesus, the Word!
What more can he say than to you he has said
who unto the Savior for refuge have fled?
2 “Fear not, I am with you, oh, be not dismayed,
for I am your God and will still give you aid;
I’ll strengthen you, help you, and cause you to stand,
upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.”
3 “When through fi’ry trials your pathway shall lie,
my grace, all-sufficient, shall be your supply.
The flames shall not hurt you; I only design
your dross to consume and your gold to refine.”
4 “Throughout all their lifetime my people shall prove
my sov’reign, eternal, unchangeable love;
and then, when gray hairs shall their temples adorn,
like lambs they shall still in my bosom be borne.”
Devotion
Three years ago, a large brain tumor and complications required three craniotomies, the last of which caused me to have a stroke. I couldn’t walk, talk, or move my dominant right arm or hand. After 38 years of ministry together, in 2021 my husband and I retired. It’s been a rough road, but God’s grace, my family, and therapy have given me stamina. I can walk (with a limp), talk (slowly), and am still unable to use my right hand. There is so much that I cannot do, but the word of God, worship, and hymns bring me strength and hope. I’ve even been able to preach a few times! Ever since I was a senior in high school, Acts 20:24 has spoken to me personally: “But I do not count my life of any value to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I have received from the Lord Jesus to testify to the good news of God’s grace.” This Bible verse and this hymn (among several others) have been my song.
Prayer
In the wilderness of my life, be my faith, Lord Jesus. You are my foundation, strength, and unchangeable love. Forever I will sing your praise! Amen.