Built to last

Life, like a house, is a building. Every day we build something: a relationship, a career, a future, etc. But the fundamental question remains: what foundation are we building on? In Matthew chapters 5, 6, and 7, and more specifically in Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus uses a powerful metaphor to teach us the importance of building on a solid foundation, the rock.

The importance of the foundation

In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus sets out two essential realities:

1. The house we build may not be strong.
2. No matter how solid the house appears, it will always be tested by storms.

So it is not enough to just build. What matters is where and how we build. If the foundation is not solid, the house will collapse when the storm comes.

Building according to the right model

Every aspect of our life is built on a model:

• Our relationships are influenced by the patterns we have observed in our family or culture.
• Our professional choices often follow examples that we have adopted.
• Our reactions and behaviors are often inherited from learned patterns.

But who gave us these models? Do they come from human wisdom or from the Word of God?

In Exodus 25:40, God tells Moses, “Be careful to do the work according to the pattern shown to you on the mountain.” This verse emphasizes the importance of following a specific, divine pattern. Likewise, Jesus invites us to build our lives according to His pattern—the pattern of God’s Word.

The model of Jesus

Jesus' model is simple but demanding:

• Listen to the Word of God.
• Put this Word into practice.

Many hear the teachings of Jesus, but few apply them. Intelligence, according to Jesus, is not simply in knowledge, but in action. Building on the rock means integrating the principles of God’s Word into every area of ​​our lives:

• In our relationships: let us love and forgive as Jesus teaches us.
• In our career: let us seek integrity and justice.
• In our daily decisions: let us be guided by divine wisdom rather than by cultural pressures.

The storm will come

Jesus does not promise a life free of trials. On the contrary, he affirms that the storm will come. This storm can take many forms: personal trials, relationship difficulties, financial problems, or even spiritual crises.

However, a house built on rock will stand. When our lives are founded on God’s Word, we can be confident that we will remain standing, even in the most difficult times.

The Storm Test

No one likes to be tested, but everyone appreciates the security that comes from being tested. Consider a car: before it goes on the market, its brakes are tested to ensure reliability. Similarly, the storms of life test the strength of our faith and choices.

Hebrews 12:26-28 reminds us that whatever can be shaken will be shaken, but what is established in God’s unshakable kingdom will stand. This truth encourages us to build on eternal values ​​rather than temporary things.

Conclusion

Building to last requires intentional choices. It’s not just about building, it’s about building on the right foundation. Jesus calls us to choose the rock, follow His pattern, and put His Word into practice. When the storms of life come, a house built on rock will stand.

Let us consider: What are we building our lives on today? Is it on the values ​​of culture or on the eternal truth of God’s Word? If we choose to build on the rock, we will have security and peace, knowing that our house will stand in the face of every storm.