Matthew 7:24-27
Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine, and puts them into practice, is like a wise man who builds 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 it’s 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. Matthew 7:24-27 (NIV)
The phrase “everyone who hears these words of mine, and puts them into practice” jumps out as an important piece of these verses. What “tools” would be used to “put these words into practice” (or build on a solid foundation)? ChatGPT referenced: daily Bible reading, meditation, prayer, memorizing scripture, fellowship, journaling, serving, worship & depending on the Holy Spirit. I’d usually want to fact check ChatGPT, but these seem like reasonable tools, don’t they?
Recently I had an opportunity to “depend on the Holy Spirit”. I had a stressful week & was ruminating on all sorts of thoughts and worries. There was a big wind storm (the 80 mph winds back in July). The following day, while picking up sticks, a small beat up, plastic coin was laying in the yard. It had Philippians 4:7 on it. I looked it up: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” A coincidence? I don’t think so. I like to think of it as a mysterious message, but one directly from the Holy Spirit, who had never left my side - even though I wasn’t paying close attention.
Questions for Reflection:
- Which of these tools are the best foundation builders for your faith?
- Are there any of these tools that might be new to explore?
- What does building on a solid foundation mean to you?
Prayer:
God, thank you for being our rock and foundation that keeps us safe & close to you. Help us to continue to build on solid ground. Amen.
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