Stand on the a Rock

Stand on the Rock 
By Edgardo Herrera

We live in a world that shifts by the minute. Technology evolves overnight, political movements promise transformation, and wellness gurus advertise the next miracle cure to keep us young and energized. Yet beneath all the noise and novelty, one truth remains: how we choose to live matters. At the center of that choice is a single word — principle.

Principles are the steady guides that shape our character and anchor our decisions. They help us navigate life with integrity, especially in a society that often feels as if it has lost its moral compass. We see the signs everywhere: the rise of human trafficking, families torn apart by violence, and a culture consumed by materialism that steals inner peace from countless hearts.

Thomas Jefferson once wrote, “In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock.” His words echo a deeper biblical truth. Scripture gives us God’s principles — the Ten Commandments, the teachings of Jesus, and the moral foundation laid by Christ Himself. Paul reminds us, “For no man can lay another foundation than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 3:11).

Jesus calls us to build our lives on solid ground. Matthew describes the wise person whose house “had its foundation on the rock” (Matthew 7:24–27). That Rock is Christ — the same “spiritual Rock” Paul speaks of (1 Corinthians 10:4) and the “precious cornerstone” Peter proclaims (1 Peter 2:4–8). When we root our values in Him, the shifting sands of culture cannot sweep us away.

Our world desperately needs people who stand on God’s principles rather than the quicksand of emotion, trends, or empty promises. Principles must guide feelings, not the other way around.

 

So how do we build on this solid foundation? 

We begin by accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and choosing obedience to His Word. Christ Himself modeled obedience — even unto death (Philippians 2:8). As His disciples, we take up our cross (Matthew 16:24) and express our love through faithfulness to His commandments (John 14:15).

Along this journey, repentance becomes a gift. Scripture invites us, “Repent… that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord” (Acts 3:19). At Calvary, the chains of sin were broken, and our old selves were crucified with Christ so that we would no longer be slaves to sin (Romans 6:6; 8:2; 1 Peter 2:24).

With forgiveness comes purpose. As we spend time with Jesus in prayer and Scripture, the Holy Spirit shapes our character and forms within us “the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16). And as our faith deepens, our mission becomes clear: tell others what Christ has done and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18–20).

So when your emotions and your principles stand face to face, choose the Rock. Stand firm on Christ — your foundation, your compass, and your strength. From Him flows every good and lasting principle that leads to a life of peace, purpose, and positive influence.