the words of god
"Anyone who hears My words and puts them into practice is like the wise man who built his house on rock." —Matthew 7:24
We can stand on God's words even more firmly than we can stand on a rock. God's words are permanent (Ps 119:160). They endure forever and are firm as the heavens (Ps 119:89). When we stand upon God's word, He steadies our footsteps (Ps 119:133) and keeps us from stumbling (Ps 119:165). He sets our feet upon the rock of His word and makes firm our steps (Ps 40:3).
The literal meaning of John 8:31 is that we make our home in the word of God. Therefore, in standing upon the rock of the word of God, we abide in His word to the point that we build our home on that rock (Mt 7:24). In building our lives on the rock of God's word, we are building our spiritual house on a firm and sure Foundation (1 Cor 3:11). Jesus, the living and incarnate Word of God (Jn 1:1), is the Foundation (1 Cor 3:11), the Rock (1 Cor 10:4), and the Cornerstone (Mt 21:42). "Therefore, thus says the Lord God: See, I am laying a Stone in Zion, a Stone That has been tested, a precious Cornerstone as a sure foundation: he who puts his faith in It shall not be shaken" (Is 28:16).
With the psalmist, let us say: "I considered my ways and turned my feet to Your decrees" (Ps 119:59). Stand upon the rock foundation of Jesus, the Word of God. You will not be shaken.
Prayer: Father, Your word is firm (Ps 119:89). "Oh, that I might be firm in the ways of keeping Your" words (Ps 119:5).
Promise: "Through His blood, God made [Jesus] the Means of expiation for all who believe." —Rm 3:25
Praise: Praise Jesus, Word of God, Who is the Rock upon which we stand! Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July27, 2010
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