Read
Matthew 7:24-27, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 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. But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
Psalm 25:4-5, “Show me Your ways, Lord, teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long.”
Think
Aside from the potential of fire or natural disaster, one of every homeowner’s worst nightmares is hearing they have a crack in the foundation. With a sigh, we say, “Get ready for the work crew, the invasiveness, the noise, the hassle, and the cost!” That’s why it’s so important to build on a solid foundation. Because when cracks go unnoticed or are left unattended, there’s only more trouble. And, eventually, the house becomes uninhabitable!
In today’s reading, Jesus literally gives a foundation lesson. He juxtaposes what happens when we build our lives on rock versus sand. And His teaching is just as timely now as ever because, in today’s culture, “truth” is often subjective. It shifts according to feelings, assumptions, and opinions. Not so in God’s economy! Jesus is truth; He is our Rock.
When we build our lives on Jesus, we can withstand every storm because we’re structurally sound. We’re equipped to handle rogue winds and unexpected gusts because life isn’t ultimately about us; it’s about something far greater — God!
If we build our lives on the sand with worldly materials like selfishness, pride, relative truth, harmful habits, and ungodly behavior, we’ll crack, quake, crumble, and fall as we’re swept away by the powerful cyclones of circumstance. What have you built your life on – rock or sand? Truth or moral relativism? Reliance on Christ or self-reliance? Choose the Rock!
Seasons of difficulty will come. When they do, your structure will remain sturdy and strong on the solid ground of God’s grace, provision, and the promise of an eternal home in Heaven. And, for the here and now, life goes much smoother when we can rest in knowing that Jesus is our uncrackable foundation. With His presence, we are built to last, to endure whatever comes our way! Our lives are ROCK-SOLID!
Act
Take a few moments to think about your life’s foundation. Write down Psalm 25:4-5 and place it somewhere you will see it daily — as your phone screensaver, on your nightstand, or taped to the bathroom mirror. Then, make it a priority to continue building by seeking God daily, obeying Him, and trusting in the truth of His Word.
Pray
Dear Lord, I want to put in the work to build a strong foundation for my life. I know that it won’t always be easy, but my hope is in You. Please guide my thoughts and direct my steps so I can do what You want me to do! Amen.