Matt. 7:24-25
There are certainties in every life. Jesus said "The rain descended." Yes, the rain will descend on every life. There is the rain of discouragement when we serve well and selflessly in some position and no one seems to appreciate our efforts and critics are plentiful. Or perhaps you give yourself to the happiness and care of your loved ones, but the momotony of the daily round is not broken by a single word of gratitude.
But, Jesus also said, "The floods came." And the floods will come upon every life. The floods of temptation threaten to sweep us off our feet.There is no one who is exempt. Yet, ever fiercer are the floods of anxiety and worry. It is a struggle to live, and also to pay the expenses of living. Well, Jesus said the floods came and beat upon the house and it did not fall because it was bounded upon the rock.
And Jesus said, "The wind blew." The winds of adversity are bitter, biting winds that sweep in with a howl and leave a trail of remorse. Now, Jesus said the winds beat upon that house and it did not fall because it was founded upon the rock.
We all know that the walls of philosophy, or science, or self-satisfaction are but thin protection against the winds and rain and floods that come. Only a life built upon and trusting in Christ Jesus can battle successfully against life's storms. All other foundations are sinking sand.
The picture of the two builders is but a picture of your life and mine. What is the difference between the wise builder and the foolish one? How he built and upon what he built made the difference. Just building wasn't enough. Two things are commanded of us here; to hear, and to do. "He that hears and does these sayings of mine...." It is not enough to hear God's word, we must follow it. What is the foundation of your house? Are you safe from life's storms?
Dear Father, Thank You, my Rock, for providing me a solid foundation. I so often allow myself to become discouraged in the storms of life, rather than just turning it all over to You. Please help me to remember that You are my strength, You are my provider, and You are my refuge. Praise Your Holy Name, Lord, for You are truly all-sufficient. And, I am truly grateful for Your mercy and grace towards me. Amen.
(From Classic Christianity: A Year of Timeless Devotions Vol 1 page 157)
Hold firmly to the Rock!
Patti and Cara
Classic Christianity