We discussed yesterday how the ability to thrive in turmoil is an indication that we are living in the fullness of God’s Kingdom. Today, we’ll look at how Jesus teaches us a similar lesson in the parable of the wise man who built his house on the Rock. Many of us are familiar with the story, but the message is that a life that is rooted and based in God can withstand any storm. In this tale, Jesus is teaching us that rain is coming! Winds are also on their way! Even if you don’t know how far the winds will blow or from which direction they will come, you can still prepare for them. Similarly, rains may be violent and frequent, at least for a season, but you can prepare! How? Lift your spirits! Start preparing for the storm when things are going well; read books, pray, have quiet periods, and study God’s word. When you do, you will be prepared for the inevitable change of weather. There are highs and lows in life, just as there are highs and lows on the shore. You prepare to be victorious when the moment of hardship comes by training in the happy times. Here’s an example…

I spent several years of my childhood living in Oklahoma. After living there for a season, I can attest to the fact that Oklahomans are always prepared for any type of weather. On a recent visit, I was sitting in a circle with a group of individuals when one of them noted that it was colder that morning than they expected. “Yep,” someone else added, “but it’s supposed to be hot this afternoon.” “You know, it’s so funny if you don’t like the weather in Oklahoma, just wait five minutes, it’ll change!” said another lady. Having witnessed this myself, I know that no truer words have ever been spoken, yet because everyone there is aware of the unpredictability of the weather patterns, they are unsurprised by a quick change in the weather.

Friend, I urge you to adopt Oklahoman values in your faith. Build your life and grow in the knowledge of God’s truth when the weather is nice. If you only ask for one thing from Him, make it wisdom; the type that will enable you to weather even the harshest storm. You will bring the hope of His Kingdom to this chaotic world in a powerful way as you train yourself to seek the blessings of His Spirit above all else, weathering the deep waters with peace in your heart! Isn’t that an incredible honor?