Devotional

HOW FIRM A FOUNDATION

“The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock”  Matthew 7: 25 NIV

The world’s tallest tower stands in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The first observation deck rises to 1,136 feet and the second is even higher at 1,815 feet.  Photographs and information located inside the tower help visitors comprehend the enormous undertaking of the project.  Sixty-two tons of earth and shale were removed from fifty feet into the ground for laying the concrete that rises to the sky.

From 1972 to 1974, 3,000 workers were at the tower site. Harnessed by safety ropes, some of the laborers dangled outside the giant for their finishing work. Remarkably, no one sustained injuries or died on location.

Today a rapid elevator transports visitors upward for a breathtaking view of the city and all surrounding areas.  Many say, “It was worth the money, time, and effort required to build the CN Tower.”

We, too, need a good foundation for facing life each day.  As we pray and spend time with our Heavenly Father, we are strengthening our spiritual foundation, our support base for life.  We are able to see more from His point of view and not just our own.  Thus we are not overwhelmed by whatever comes our way.  When we feel we’re hanging on the edge or suspended in mid-air, we can take courage in knowing He is holding us—firmly planted—in the palm of His hand.  His foundation is strong and sure, and He will not crumble and fall.

A devotional by Fran Caffey Sandin.  Cpyright 2000.  All rights reserved.

more devotions

Hello and Welcome!

Life is tough, but God is good.  God’s Word is a strong foundation that is indeed practical and relevant in our world today.  Scripture surely molds and changes us as we integrate it into our hearts and lives.  Paul’s example in I Thessalonians demonstrates spiritual fruit that remains.  I want these same elements to characterize my life.to:

• Present the gospel with boldness,
• Give myself—in loving, supporting, cherishing,
• Live without blame and above reproach,
• Exhort and comfort others (as a mother to her children),
• Expect God’s Word to work powerfully,
• Condition others for persecution and suffering,
• Always be ready for Christ’s return.

A personal relationship with Christ is the most exciting element for daily living. He came to give us an abundant life! (John 10: 10). He loves us and wants us to experience the fullness of His grace, joy, and peace. A joyful heart is good medicine (Proverbs 15: 13).  I pray that you’ll find encouragement and hope through my writings and that God will bless you abundantly as you seek His face.

Warmly,
Fran

I’d like to share a “favorite recipe of the month”. Feel free to copy and try this family favorite!

Telephone Bars

1 cup chopped dates
1 tsp. soda
1 cup boiling water
½ cup shortening
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
¼ tsp. salt
2 Tbsp. cocoa
1 ½ cups flour  (may use ½ cup of whole wheat flour if desired)
1 cup chocolate chips

Pour boiling water over dates, add 1 tsp. soda, cool.  Cream sugar, shortening, eggs, vanilla, salt, and cocoa.  Add the flour mixture alternately with the date mixture and beat well.  Spread in a greased 9” x 13” pan and sprinkle chocolate chips on top.  Bake 30-35 minutes. 350 degrees.   

I found this recipe in an old cookbook. When you make these bars and take them for an event, your telephone will ring. Folks will be asking for your recipe!

• Fran’s newest release
• A chapter from one of Fran’s books
• An article by Fran
• Grief Recovery Article by Fran
• “Ten Days of Encouragement” a short 10 Day Bible Study