The Wise and Foolish Builders

“And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.” 

Matthew 7:26

Introduction

King Solomon was known for his wisdom and wealth, and he built many impressive structures and projects during his reign as king of Israel, including the First Temple in Jerusalem. However, Solomon also turned away from God and disobeyed His commands by marrying foreign women and worshiping their gods. As a result, Solomon's kingdom began to crumble and eventually split in two after his death.

Like a sand castle, Solomon's kingdom was not built on a sure foundation of obedience to God's word. It was vulnerable to the erosion of sin. Just as a sand castle is temporary and fleeting, Solomon's kingdom eventually crumbled as a result of his disobedience. This serves as a reminder of the importance of building our lives on a foundation of obedience to God's word, rather than following our own desires and pursuits. It is not enough to know God’s word, we must put it into action.

Are you a wise or foolish builder?

Do you know someone who says that they believe in Jesus, but their actions don't reflect his teachings? Or maybe you've noticed this in your own life – you know what the Bible says, but you struggle to put it into practice.

In Matthew 7:24, Jesus says, "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." This verse reminds us that it is not enough to simply know God's word – we must put it into practice in order for it to serve as a sure foundation for our lives.

What good is it to have a foundation of sand? When the storms of life come, we will feel lost. Without a solid foundation of faith and obedience to God we will be left searching for answers. But when we build our lives on the solid foundation of Jesus' teachings, we can withstand the challenges and trials that come our way.

How can we put Jesus' teachings into practice? The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is a great place to start. In this sermon, Jesus teaches us about the importance of seeking God's kingdom and His righteousness. This priority should shape our lives and our relationships with others.

In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus says, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." This passage teaches us that following Jesus and living according to his teachings is the path to life, while following our own desires and pursuits leads to destruction.

Living according to Jesus' teachings is not easy or popular. It requires us to make tough choices and to go against the opinions of people around us. It requires us to put Jesus and his kingdom first, even when it's not convenient or comfortable.

But the reward of following Jesus is worth it. When we put his teachings into practice, we experience the fullness of the life that he offers. We experience the peace, joy, and purpose that comes from living according to his ways.

How can we encourage others to put Jesus' teachings into practice? One way is by being an example of what it looks like to follow Jesus and live according to his teachings. When others see the difference Jesus makes in our lives, it can inspire them to follow him as well.

We can also encourage others by speaking the truth of God's word in love. When we share the Gospel and the teachings of Jesus with others, we have the opportunity to plant seeds that may bear fruit in the future. We can pray for the Holy Spirit to open hearts and minds to the truth of God's word, and trust that he will work in the lives of those we share with.

Remember, knowing God's word is not enough. We must put it into practice in order to experience the fullness of the life that he offers. Let's strive to be like the wise man who built his house on the rock, and let us encourage others to do the same.

Questions for Reflection

1. In what ways have I built my life on a solid foundation, putting into practice the teachings of Jesus?

2. Are there specific teachings of Jesus that you are currently neglecting? If so, what are they?

3. Is there someone you know who is struggling with the “storms of life” and in need of encouragement? Is God leading you to share the truth of Jesus’ teachings to strengthen their foundation?

Prayer of the Day

God,

I adore you. You are wise and all-knowing. The wisdom of your Word can always be trusted. Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Thank you for the clear instruction to put Jesus’ teachings into practice (Matthew 7:24-26).

I confess that at times I have not built my life on a solid foundation. I have allowed fear, doubt, and other distractions to steer me away from following your teachings. Please forgive me for my shortcomings and help me to turn back to you.

I am thankful for the opportunity to reflect on my life and to make changes that will honor you. Thank you for your patience and love as I strive to follow your will.

I pray that you would give me the strength and guidance to build my life on a solid foundation, following your teachings and example. Help me to weather the storms of life and to stand firm in my faith.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.