Today’s devotion builds on the thoughts from Sunday’s Sermon – Week 7 of “Fan or Follower – Seek Truth” (LISTEN HERE).
Matthew 7:24 “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. 25 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. 26 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. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
Whenever a hurricane strikes a coastal city like Ian did in the Ft. Myers, FL area, we see the effects of winds, waves, and flooding. A storm of the strength of Ian wreaked havoc on the barrier islands and many homes that enjoyed ocean front views are no longer.
This reflection is in no way to make light of or minimize the loss many families have experienced at the brunt of a powerful storm. The strength of one’s home and the security of a solid foundation are critical to withstand storms of hurricane strength.
The next hurricane is not a matter of “if,” it is a matter of “when.” So, if one is going to build or rebuild in this area, strength of the structure and its foundation matters.
It’s not a matter of “if” a hurricane will come in our lives, it’s a matter of “when.”
What storms are you in, facing or anticipating? Not physical storms, but spiritual ones. Satan loves to bring storms in life that beat against our faith and seek to destroy it. Some are gentle breezes…some “Cat 5” hurricane strength.
What do those storms look like?
- Maybe an unexpected death of a spouse or parent leaving us at a loss for the future.
- Walking into work and being fired and now without a job and regular income.
- World affairs that threaten lives or livelihood.
- A child that is following a path of poor choices, bad friendships, and destructive behavior.
- Addiction to cope with the challenges of life.
What is yours?
Jesus is not naive to think that storms will not come. In fact he KNOWS they will come and want us to survive these storms and come through them stronger in faith, not weaker. So he gives us his loving direction: Hear my Word AND put it into practice.
Both men in Jesus’ short parable hear the Words of God. One puts them into practice and another blows them off.
So what might that look like? Here are a few examples of hearing and doing the Word of God.
Jesus encourages,
Psalm 50:15 and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.” So when trouble comes, we call on the Lord…as a first resort, not last.
When we put wisdom from the Lord on managing our wealth into practice, we are are able to navigate a time without income.
Proverbs 13:7 One person pretends to be rich but has nothing; another pretends to be poor but has abundant wealth. – Proverbs 13:7
God’s truth guides our relationships and enables us to enjoy blessing out of conflict.
Romans 12:17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”[a] says the Lord.
When we are navigating earthly challenges or facing our own mortality, the Word encourages us.
Philippians 1:21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
These are just a small sample of encouragement for our souls as we navigate the winds and waves of life.
Truth of God put into practice is the foundation that cannot be shaken!
Apply: What challenges in life are shaking your spiritual foundation? What truth of God’s Word will serve to provide a solid foundation as you navigate the challenge?
Prayer: Lord thank you for your word of truth. Help me not to just hear it, but to put it into practice! AMEN.