Job 1:21 - The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away

"Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised."

It's interesting that Job, the oldest book in the Bible, is all about suffering and it's purpose. Job wrestles with why bad things happen to good people, but one of the things that keeps his focus intact is the understanding that all of life is a gift from God. The question is not why bad things happen, it's really why good things happen at all! We know that there are things that are good and beautiful, but many times that beauty isn't realized until it's taken away. But Job reminds us that even when life seems to disappear in the dust, that death is a signpost toward the One who loves His creation so much He will reclaim it. For those who follow Jesus Christ, there will come a day when that same God will take us into His arms. May the name of the Lord be praised!

Today's Commentary by:
David Whitehead, Pastor, Grace NYC

Matthew 7:24-29 - The Wise and Foolish Builders

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. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.

The differences between these two houses is not in their outward appearances, but in their foundations. Faith in Jesus Christ and obedience to His Word is our only true foundation -- in this life and after. The wise man will not only listen to Jesus, but will follow and obey Him.

When the storms of life come crashing in, where is your foundation?

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