There are lots of things I've taken for granted in my life, but lately I realized a blessing that I've seen others struggle with - having a 'stability' in my life in spite of many challenges and trials that I have been through!
There are many verses in the Bible that say that the Lord will "establish" you. The root word of establish is used in the word "stability" "stable". Psalm one says that those who trust God are like a tree planted by the water whose roots run deep. The deeper the roots the more stability you have. It says in James that if you trust his wisdom, you are tossed and blown all over the place.
A healthy tree has deep roots and a sound building has a good foundation to build on. What kind of roots and foundation are we talking about? Here are a few:
- A stable family - normal day to day troubles, but no catastrophic losses in relationships
- Living stability -no abuse, substance abuse, food or housing insecurity
- A comfortable domicile
- The ability to keep and maintain employment.
- The ability to promote physical health wellbeing
- Healthy relationships with friends, families, and co-workers - not parasitic
- The ability to take advantage of education and growth opportunities.
- Enjoy recreational opportunities.
- The ability to pursue spiritual growth and balance.
- The pursuit of hobbies and interests outside of work
Trusting in God and following His Word is indeed the key to all of these things or the key to developing and growing into these things. I know people who are struggling with all of these things. I often wonder how their lives became so chaotic - which decision or turning point produced chaos? Also, the chaos in our lives impacts the abilities of others to purse happiness and stability. If our lives lack the stability listed above, it is nearly impossible that those close to us or who depend on us have stability either. A parent without stable employment, health, or a home cannot provide that to their children. The stress compounds in the home for all family members. A parent in an abusive relationship cannot promote health and mental well-being for the residents of the home. They are not free to grow and pursue their interests.
If you can accept that God wants you to have stability, you are on the right track. Daily reading, meditation , and prayer can lead to that. God is even faithful that if you are not perfect, He will provide His grace to help you follow him and pursue His will.
My life is busy and stressful at times, but stable. The Lord has given me through following his principles the foundation of stability which allows me to pursue happiness.