Gracious Jesus 5 – Kingdom Lifestyle Part 3Sample

A Firm Foundation

In another graphic summary in His “sermon on the mount”, Jesus tells us the popular story of the wise and foolish men who build their house on the rock and sand respectively. It’s obvious which house stands. He encourages us to base our goals and lives on more eternal matters, not just superficially, but in a manner that consumes our hearts, wills and lives.

Building on the Foundation

In Matthew 7:24, Jesus says, “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock”.

Jesus calls for all believers to apply His words in our lives. What are the “words” Jesus refers to? While He may be directly referring to the “sermon on the mount,” He is just concluding; He also emphasizes that He is here not to abolish but to “fulfil the law” (Matthew 5:17). “Hearing” needs to be accompanied by “obeying” – from the heart.

In 1992, when Hurricane Andrew destroyed thousands of homes in South Florida, one house remained standing. Its homeowner said, “I built this house myself. I also built it according to the Florida state building code.” [1]

Our life code is in the Bible. To remain firm, we need to follow it.

Riding the Storm

The storms push the eagle higher above the storm. Just as the eagle rides the storm, we too can rise above, to seek God and His high purposes in times of trouble.

“But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles.” (Isaiah 40:31)

Building on Sand

Even kids build sandcastles. It’s that easy! When we base our security and pleasure on the temporary things of life, we risk building castles on the sand which will one day be washed away.

Christ, the Rock

How do we make Christ our foundation? When we study the Bible and obey its teachings, we build a strong relationship with Christ. We are so tuned to Him that our heart, will, goals and actions align with His. We may not be in the popular bandwagon but it will be the best and most joyful journey we can ever hope to have on the earth.

How can we maintain our focus without compromise? What encouragement can we derive when we find we often stand alone?