How would you like a hurricane and earthquake-proof house? Even better, how would you like a hurricane and earthquake-proof life? Get to know Jesus for who he is and do what he tells you. This is the path to a rock-solid life.

Our son and his family moved from the California desert near Joshua Tree National Park to Tampa, Florida two months ago. Just in time for a hurricane. In their six years of marriage, they have experienced blizzards in Pennsylvania, sandstorms and wildfires in California, and now a hurricane in Florida. 

The hurricane was originally forecast to hit Tampa head-on. Instead, it turned its winds down the coast with devastating results. Texas Baptist Men/Texans on Mission, along with other groups, have been there since the storm passed helping people begin the painful prospect of picking up, cleaning up, and starting over. 

How could a person see those photos and videos without feeling compassion for those who lost so much? 

Some people live lives appearing to have endured hurricanes and earthquakes and tornadoes and lions, tigers, and bears (Oh my!). Their problems are not external forces of nature, however. Their problems are internal decisions to do life without the wise direction of our Creator and our Savior. 

Some people somehow believe they are smarter than God or can have more fun than God. Here is a statement truer than true: God is the wisest and the most joyful being anywhere. You cannot outsmart him. You cannot outdo him in laughter and joy. 

Consider the most intense pleasure you know. God created you with those capabilities. All credit goes to him. No misuse or abuse is attributable to him. If your house collapses, it is most likely due to your own faulty foundation and craftsmanship. Build on his foundation of grace and truth and discover the joys and laughter accompanying rock-solid living. 

Someone along the way said, “It’s not too late to become what you might have been.” Today, then, is a good day to begin laying a new foundation. Let us begin with worship, adoration, and the joy of joining the chorus of believers in exalting God with glorious praise. 

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I will build upon the rock of hearing and doing what Jesus says.

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