In a world filled with distractions, competing priorities, and shifting values, making Jesus the cornerstone of our lives is a choice that requires intentionality and commitment. The question isn’t just theoretical; it’s deeply practical and personal. Jesus addressed this directly in Luke 20:17-19, where He described Himself as “the stone the builders rejected” but who has become “the cornerstone.” Now, if you’ve ever wondered what it means to have Jesus as your cornerstone, let’s explore this idea together. The cornerstone in ancient building practices was crucial—it aligned the entire structure, giving stability and strength. For us, aligning our lives with Jesus means allowing Him to be the starting point of our decisions, values, and identity.
Scripture calls Jesus the cornerstone because He is the foundation of our faith and the axis around which our lives should revolve. In Ephesians 2:20, Paul writes that we are “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone.” This description helps us understand that Jesus is not an accessory to a well-rounded life or a backup when things go wrong; He is the essence, the foundation. As Darrell Bock, a respected biblical commentator, says, “The rejected stone is not discarded but exalted by God, becoming the very means by which salvation and judgment come.” Jesus is the cornerstone, not only in His redemptive work but in His role as Lord over our daily lives.
Now, let’s get practical. How do we make Jesus the cornerstone when so many things compete for that foundational spot in our lives? In today’s culture, it’s easy to let career, relationships, or personal ambitions take center stage, even for those of us who truly love Jesus. We might see Jesus as part of our lives, but not always as the core of it. Making Jesus our cornerstone means putting Him first and allowing Him to influence every area of our lives—our priorities, actions, thoughts, and relationships. Imagine beginning each day with a simple prayer, asking Jesus to lead and guide every decision. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” These verses challenge us to relinquish control and trust in God’s wisdom and direction.
One practical way to start is by evaluating where we place our trust. Are we relying on our own strength, financial security, or relationships to provide stability? When Jesus is our cornerstone, our security rests in Him, regardless of our circumstances. We see this truth in Matthew 6:33, where Jesus tells us, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” The act of placing Jesus first is a continual decision, a daily surrender. It doesn’t mean that we ignore our responsibilities or the practical needs of life, but it reorders our priorities. When we put Jesus first, everything else finds its rightful place. Like a puzzle that suddenly makes sense, our lives gain clarity and purpose when Christ is the central piece.
Another key aspect of making Jesus the cornerstone is letting Him shape our identity. So often, we define ourselves by our successes, failures, or relationships. But Jesus invites us to find our identity in Him, grounding our sense of worth and purpose in the knowledge that we are loved and redeemed by God. Colossians 2:6-7 encourages us to “continue to live your lives in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” These verses speak to a life rooted in Jesus, where we draw our strength and identity from Him rather than the shifting sands of the world. When we anchor our identity in Christ, we become less swayed by external pressures and more grounded in God’s purpose for us. We are free to live authentically, knowing that our value is not tied to our achievements but to our relationship with Jesus.
I find that making Jesus my cornerstone also means allowing His teachings to influence my choices and actions. Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commands.” Here, we’re reminded that following Jesus isn’t just about acknowledging Him in our hearts but also obeying Him in our lives. Making Jesus the cornerstone means letting His values shape our own. It’s choosing forgiveness over resentment, humility over pride, and generosity over selfishness. When we face decisions, big or small, we can ask ourselves, “Does this align with Jesus’ teaching? Does this honor Him?” Over time, this practice of aligning our choices with Jesus’ values becomes more natural, forming the foundation of a Christ-centered life.
In times of struggle or uncertainty, remembering Jesus as our cornerstone brings comfort and hope. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but when our foundation is unshakeable, we find the strength to endure. Psalm 18:2 says, “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.” These words remind us that Jesus, as our cornerstone, provides the stability and support we need. We may face storms, but with Him as our foundation, we can stand firm. In this way, Jesus’ role as cornerstone is not only about spiritual alignment but also about resilience and peace in the face of adversity.
So, as we think about making Jesus the cornerstone of our lives, let’s remember that it’s an invitation to live with purpose, peace, and a clear sense of direction. Jesus doesn’t demand to be the cornerstone to control us; He offers it as a gift, a way for us to build our lives on a foundation that cannot be shaken. When we surrender our lives to Him, we’re choosing the stability and security that only He can provide. Craig Keener, another respected scholar, notes, “Those who refuse to build on Jesus as their cornerstone risk losing the very foundation of hope and purpose.” It’s a sobering reminder that when we try to build our lives on anything but Christ, we miss the strength and guidance that only He can offer.
To bring this home, here’s my challenge to you: Take time to reflect on the foundation of your life. Are there areas where Jesus has become more of an afterthought than the core? Pray about what it might look like for you to make Him your cornerstone. Perhaps it means dedicating time to prayer and scripture each day, or maybe it’s choosing to trust Him in a difficult situation where you’re tempted to rely on your own understanding. Whatever it looks like for you, I encourage you to take a step today toward placing Jesus at the center. As you do, you’ll find that everything else starts to align, and your life becomes a testament to His strength and love.
Inspirational Thought:
Making Jesus your cornerstone isn’t just a one-time decision; it’s a daily commitment to align your life with His purpose. When we choose Him as our foundation, we gain a strength and peace that surpasses all understanding. Let today be a day to renew that choice, trusting that Jesus as our cornerstone brings lasting stability and hope.
For more insights, read “What does it mean that Jesus is the cornerstone?”
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