The Rock on Which I Stand

"Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house,

it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock."

Matthew 7: 24-25 NLT

Suggested readings: Matthew 7:24-29, Luke 6:47-49, Psalm 16, James 1:19-25

Looking for stability, certainty, a firm foundation? Listen and follow. These two commands Jesus gives in Matthew 7 is to ensure that a house who listens and obeys will be able to stand against torrents, floods, and whipping winds. The enemy can shake the ground around you, but he can never shake the Rock you stand on.

Listen. Take time to listen to God today. How do you that? By being still, by reading His Word, by giving Him your undivided attention. Really listen to Him not just with your ears, but with your eyes, your spirit, and your heart. Commune with Him. Look for Him within and around you. Praise God when you notice Him in the moment, and ask Him to keep speaking. God is not silent; He's just quiet. He speaks in whispers so that you have to draw near to Him to hear Him.

Follow. "But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says." (James 1:22 NLT) Do what God motivates you in your heart to do. Make decisions based on what He wants, not what you want or feel. Feelings can be misleading (especially if you're in the midst of a storm), so keep checking with God on what to do. He won't leave you hanging. Remember, He is a Rock holding you up. He is with you, so He will show you which steps to take. If you're unsure, then wait. He is faithful to lead you on the right path. Following Him gives you peace, protection, and provisions for what you need.

When you feel the waters rising and the winds whipping, stand firm in faith on Christ, the Solid Rock. Listen to His voice and follow His commands. Rest in the safety of His presence and goodness. For He knows your plans. He is for you even if it feels everything and everyone else is against you. The enemy will come against any follower of Christ, but he cannot collapse a believer who is listening and following God's will. Keep standing on the Rock and wait for the glory that's beyond the storm. Storms don't last, but thankfully God does.

"I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me. I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.

No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety."

~Psalm 16:7-9 NLT