Words from the Rock
Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.
Matthew 7:24–27 NLT
Jesus didn’t have TV or movies to assist in his teachings, but he did know how to create vivid images—ones that would remain indelibly printed on the minds of millions over the next two thousand years—through his gift of storytelling. And this particular parable (meaning a story with a lesson) is a great visual aid for understanding how Jesus is our rock-solid foundation.
Everyone likes the idea of a beach house, right? Imagine these two surfer dudes who decide to build their seaside dream homes. One guy can’t wait to get into his house—he’s imagining something very cool and something great for parties, and he wants it done fast. So he buys the cheapest ocean-view lot and quickly builds his dream home right on the sand near the water. But the other guy does some research and pays more money to buy a lot a little higher—same great view, but the lot is on stone, and the house doesn’t go up as quickly since it takes time to do things right. Finally both houses are complete—and then a hurricane hits. Guess which guy is suddenly homeless?
That’s how people feel when their lives aren’t built on Jesus. He’s the Rock that anchors us through the worst storms—and they do come eventually. Sure, it might seem faster or easier to just plant a house on the beach and kick back, but that house won’t get us through the storms. Jesus, the Rock, will.
My Prayer
Dear God,
I want my life to be firmly grounded on you. Help me to hold fast to your truth and your words so my “house” will withstand the worst of storms.
Amen.
Final Word
Live under the protection
of God Most High
and stay in the shadow
of God All-Powerful.
Then you will say to the LORD,
“You are my fortress,
my place of safety;
you are my God,
and I trust you.”
Psalm 91:1–2 CEV
Stone for the Journey
Only a rock-solid foundation on Jesus will keep you safe during life’s hurricanes.