“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” Matthew 7:24
The fall day was lovely. My two preteen daughters were enjoying a rare time at the beach. Although it is a favorite place, we don’t live close. They were giggling as they ran around, shoes on but kept dry by running from the gentle surf. My youngest stopped quickly and posed on a rock just above the waves. My camera was out, so I clicked away. Then squealing erupted, part laughter, part shock. She was all wet! With no warning, a wave had splashed up to her knees, instantly dislodging the rock under her feet.
Isn’t life like that? In this crazy world, waves of circumstances surprise us and try to knock us from our moorings, leaving us shocked and soaked.
Matthew 7:24 says, “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” In Acts 4:11, we are told that Jesus is the cornerstone—a stone that sets the lines of the walls in both directions and is integral to the strength and longevity of the structure.
We have to choose the substance of our foundation. If it isn’t Jesus, something else will take His place.
For instance, I spent years “knowing” God’s words but not giving them their rightful place as my solid rock. As a recovering people-pleaser, I’ve allowed other voices too much space in my mind. Lies that have told me I’m “not enough” have played on repeat. I’ve measured my worth by others’ standards rather than Christ the Cornerstone.
Have you been caught off guard by circumstances that rock your foundation? How did you respond? Or perhaps it’s something you’re dealing with currently. Maybe you are waiting for test results or news about a job. Maybe you are fighting an inner battle that others don’t see. This is a good time to fill your thoughts with God’s timeless truths so you can hear and do like the wise man who built on the solid rock.
Fun fact: that solid rock benefits not only you and me, but those around us who are caught off guard by the world’s crazy. As believers who continue building our foundation in Christ, we can point others to Jesus.
How can you do that today? This wild world needs the hope only He can give.
Prayer: Jesus, I am thankful for the firm foundation of Your Word. Thank You for rescuing me from the trap of pleasing others. You are the cornerstone of my life. Let me be a light and encouragement to those around me when life’s craziness tries to sweep them off their feet. In Your name, Amen.
Want More?
Read Psalm 1. What words describe the blessed man? What does he do? What changes in me if I become like this person? How does the truth of this psalm help me encourage others as they face the world’s craziness?
