Wise or Foolish?

Pastor: Jeff Love

Building on the Rock

The past few weeks have been heavy. From the assassination of Charlie Kirk to the tragic shooting at Evergreen High, the murder of Iryna Zarutshka, and even remembering the 24th anniversary of 9/11—it feels like the list of violence, hatred, and injustice grows longer by the day. And what makes it worse is seeing some people respond with celebration, excuses, or indifference.

In moments like these, sorrow and anger rise quickly. And if we’re not careful, righteous grief can turn into sinful bitterness. So what do we do? Where do we turn? We turn to the only true source of hope: Jesus Christ.

The Narrow Way

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 7:13–14 that the road to life is narrow and difficult—and few choose it. Why? Because of pride, stubbornness, and sin. But there’s no middle ground. Every person must choose: the broad road that leads to destruction, or the narrow way that leads to life.

Professing belief isn’t enough. Even miracles and religious activity aren’t enough. On Judgment Day, many will say, “Lord, Lord,” only to hear the most terrifying words: “I never knew you” (Matthew 7:23). What matters is a relationship with Jesus—being part of His family through repentance and faith.

A Wise Foundation

At the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gives us a vivid word picture: two builders, two houses, two foundations.

• The wise builder hears His words and obeys them. Their life is built on rock—stable, secure, and strong.

• The foolish builder hears His words but ignores them. Their life is built on sand—shaky, temporary, and vulnerable.

Storms come for both—the rain, floods, and winds beat against every house. But only the house on the rock stands. And that makes all the difference, not just for today but for eternity.

Choices and Consequences

Every choice we make builds something—either stability or collapse. No one is immune to the storms of life, and no one can stand on their own. Self-reliance may look strong for a season, but when the storm comes, the fall is great.

That’s why Jesus calls us to humility. To set aside pride and stubbornness and build our lives on Him. To let His Word shape us, His Spirit guide us, and His grace hold us steady. Because when the storm passes—and it always will—we want to be found still standing, giving thanks to the God who kept us.

Living with Hope

We live in a sin-cursed world, and the battle between light and darkness is intensifying. But we are not without hope. Jesus Christ offers forgiveness, new life, and a foundation that cannot be shaken.

As 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us: “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”

The choice is clear. Build your life on the shifting sands of self, or on the unshakable rock of Christ. One leads to ruin. The other leads to life.