“The wise man built his house upon a rock,
The wise man built his house upon a rock,
The wise man built his house upon a rock,
And the rain came tumbling down ...”
If you’re like me, you sang this song in Sunday school many years ago. It goes on to tell us how the house of the wise man stood firm in the midst of the storm and flood.
The song also tells us about a foolish man whose house fell flat. He had built his house upon the sand.
The song is, of course, based on the teaching of Jesus found in Matthew chapter 7. In the teaching, Christ tells us that the difference in the two houses was not the materials or the workmanship, but the foundation. They went through the same storm, but the house built on the rock stood and the house built on the sand was destroyed.
Christ then informs us that the foolish man represents the one who hears His words but does not do them, while the wise man represents the person who hears and obeys the teachings of Jesus Christ.
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There have been many periods of unrest, instability and uncertainty throughout the history of our country, but perhaps none more thoroughly unsettling than the past year. Racial unrest, political division over everything from the wearing of masks to the conduct of law enforcement officers, a worldwide health crisis, a contentious election, soaring prices ... the list goes on.
How has your spirit been in the midst of all this?
Jesus taught that those whose lives are built on hearing and obeying His word will be stable and equipped to endure the storms of life. He promises peace in the midst of turmoil to those who know Him and are committed to obeying His truth.
His great promise still stands: “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
His invitation is open to you.
Greg Stine is pastor at Lakeside Baptist Church in Backus.
