Sunday, November 27, 2011

Building Your House

"The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down." Proverbs 14:1 This scripture has always caught my attention. I have actually watched this truth unfold before my very eyes. If I'm at a bad place spiritually or emotionally, I can wreak havoc on my house. When my emotions are raw, I try to find peace by spending time with the Lord. He has probably saved my family more than they will ever know!

Every day we are either building or tearing down our homes. What kind of an environment are you creating? Are you building your home on spiritual truths? Are you strengthing its foundation based on the word of God? Whether you live alone or have a house full we are called to invite the Lord into our homes as the master builder. Psalm 127:1 "Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain."

The first step in actually building a house is to select a lot. In our lives, we have to determine our "lot" or "position" in life. Will we choose to serve the Lord or focus our attention on the things of this world? Joshua 24:15 "But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” The second thing you have to do in order to lay the foundation is "clearing and excavation". The definition of excavate is to make hollow by removing the inner part or to expose or lay bare. We must remove our inner self or as some like to phrase it - "die to self". John 3:30 "He must become greater; I must become less.” We need to expose all of our hidden selfish thoughts to Almighty God; and allow Him to create a heart in us that desires to please Him and not ourselves. Our foundation must be solid and faithful. 2 Timothy 2:19 "Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: the Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.” As we begin to build, we need to utilize the tools God has given us in His word. These spiritual power tools can get us through our toughest days. Philippians 4:5-7 "Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." These scriptural building blocks are needed to keep our thoughts and actions in check. If we search them for direction with life's issues and respond in complete obedience to what God is telling us, we are more equipt to handle the chaos in our homes. The end result, we can put our head on our pillow at night knowing we have kept our homes in tact that day - as opposed to creating heartache, stirring negativity, or causing turmoil. God can soothe the anxious soul and remind us what really matters most.

Once you've completed building your home, an inspection is required. Step back from your situation and make sure you are lined up with Biblical truths. Once you're done, you can sit back and enjoy the beautiful home you have created. But remember the home requires a great deal of maintenance. The work is never done. :)

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