Scripture to Read: Matthew 7:24–27
Jesus challenges the people, and of course, this challenge is for us as He says (in Matthew 7:24–27), “Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock. 26 Everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and it fell—and great was its fall.” We know God and His Word transforms everyone who walks according to His Truth. Jesus uses a great illustration of two houses built on two different foundations. Both houses faced the tests and trails of rain, floods, and winds as they slammed against each house. But the only house that stood was built on the rock. Of course, Jesus speaks of our lives, for everyone faces tests and trials in life. Those tests and trials can seem overwhelming at times. The only way to overcome and have victory through the tests and trials is through a solid foundation. Christ and His Word are the only foundation that will never crumble. God tells us in Ephesians 6:10–18 how to prepare ourselves for the battlefield of life, and He says three times to “stand firm.”
Challenge & Application
· Why do the tests and trials come according to James 1:2–4?
· How do we make sure that we are still standing strong through the tests and trials we face?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!