Faith Beyond Doubt

This is the manuscript of the sermon preached at Christ Church Los Angeles Sunday June 1, 2025

Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. (Romans 4:18-21 NIV)

We live in a world that often encourages skepticism and questions. But what about our faith? Is it okay to have doubts? Does having questions mean we lack faith?

The truth is, doubt is a common human experience. It's not necessarily the opposite of faith; sometimes, it's a pathway to deeper faith. Many of us have wrestled with questions about God, His promises, or His presence in difficult times. Perhaps you're wrestling with them right now.

We're going to explore what it means to have "faith beyond doubt." This isn't about having no questions or never feeling uncertain. It's about a foundational trust in God that endures through the questions, a conviction that holds firm even when circumstances scream otherwise.

Scripture:

Mark 9:14-24 NIV [14] When they came to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and the teachers of the law arguing with them. [15] As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet him. [16]  “What are you arguing with them about?” he asked. [17] A man in the crowd answered, “Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. [18] Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not.” [19]  “You unbelieving generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me.” [20] So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. [21] Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. [22] “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” [23]  “ ‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” [24] Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”

Sermon Text:

Romans 4:18-21 NIV [18] Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” [19] Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. [20] Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, [21] being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. 

Introduction

We live in a world that often encourages skepticism and questions. But what about our faith? Is it okay to have doubts? Does having questions mean we lack faith?

The truth is, doubt is a common human experience. It's not necessarily the opposite of faith; sometimes, it's a pathway to deeper faith. Many of us have wrestled with questions about God, His promises, or His presence in difficult times. Perhaps you're wrestling with them right now.

Today, we're going to look at what it means to have "faith beyond doubt." This isn't about having no questions or never feeling uncertain. It's about a foundational trust in God that endures through every question, a conviction that stands firm even when circumstances suggest otherwise. 

I. Let's be honest: doubt is real. It can creep in for many reasons:

•  When prayers go unanswered, when suffering seems endless, when injustice prevails.

• Questions like "How can a good God allow evil?" "Is the Bible truly reliable?"

• When we are under spiritual attack the enemy loves to sow seeds of doubt in our minds.

Consider our scripture this morning, where a father cries out to Jesus, "I believe; help my unbelief!" This is a raw, honest confession that faith and doubt can coexist, and that even in our weakness, we can appeal to God for strength.

Even some of our biblical heroes experienced doubt.

Consider John the Baptist, who while in prison, sent disciples to  Jesus

Matthew 11:2-6 NIV [2] When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples [3] to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” 

Even the one who prepared the way for Christ had moments of uncertainty.

So, if you've experienced doubt, or experiencing it now, you're in good company. The goal isn't to pretend doubt doesn't exist, but to learn how to navigate it and allow God to strengthen our faith.

II. The Example of Abraham: Faith Not Wavering

Our sermon text focuses on Abraham, a man celebrated as the father of faith.  

Let's look at it again

Romans 4:18-21 NIV [18] Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” [19] Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. [20] Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, [21] being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. 

Think about Abraham's situation for a moment. God promised him countless descendants, a nation, and that through him all the families of the earth would be blessed.

Genesis 12:1-5 NIV[1] The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. [2] “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. [3] I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” [4] So Abram went, as the Lord had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Harran. [5] He took his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, all the possessions they had accumulated and the people they had acquired in Harran, and they set out for the land of Canaan, and they arrived there.

Not only was Abraham, whose name was Abram at the time God changed it later, what we call a senior today. Not only was he 75 but scripture had told us earlier that his wife was barren and couldn't have children.

Genesis 11:29-30 NIV [29] Abram and Nahor both married. The name of Abram’s wife was Sarai, and the name of Nahor’s wife was Milkah; she was the daughter of Haran, the father of both Milkah and Iskah. [30] Now Sarai was childless because she was not able to conceive.

So Abraham was old, and his wife Sarah was barren. 

From a human perspective, this promise of countless descendants, a nation, and that through him all the families of the earth would be blessed was impossible.

Abraham had every human reason to doubt. The circumstances were overwhelmingly against him. Yet, the text says, “Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God”  

He didn't deny the difficulty, but he didn't let it shake his core trust in God.

This is the essence of faith beyond doubt: not ignoring the obstacles, but focusing on the character and power of God.

Jeremiah 32:17 NIV [17] “Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you. 

Remember what the angel said to Mary?

Luke 1:34-37 NIV [34] “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” [35] The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. [36] Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. [37] For no word from God will ever fail.”

III. The Source of Faith Beyond Doubt

Unwavering faith isn't about conjuring up optimism or ignoring the truth of our circumstances. Our faith is fundamentally anchored in who God is.

1. Abraham was "fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised." Our faith is only as strong as the object of our faith. If we believe in a God who is all-powerful, who created the universe from nothing, who raises the dead, then no promise is too big for Him.

2. God is not a man that He should lie. His promises are always true.

Numbers 23:19 NIV[19] God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?

God is always faithful to His Word. When we anchor our faith in His unchanging character, our doubts start to go away.

2 Corinthians 1:19-20 NIV [19] For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me and Silas and Timothy—was not “Yes” and “No,” but in him it has always been “Yes.” [20] For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. 

Jesus is the embodiment of God's unwavering faithfulness. He is consistent, true, and definitive. All of God's promises find their ultimate fulfillment and guarantee in Jesus Christ. He is the "Yes" to every divine promise. Because God's promises are eternally secured in Christ, we can confidently and truthfully respond with "Amen," expressing our agreement, belief, and hope.

Our faith deepens as we actively connect with God and immerse ourselves in His Word.

Romans 10:17 NIV[17] Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. 

The more we immerse ourselves in Scripture, the more we learn about God's character, His promises, and His track record of faithfulness. This builds a strong foundation against doubt.

This isn't blind faith; it's faith based on knowing God.

Many people, both Christians and non-Christians, sometimes misunderstand faith they see it as a leap in the dark, a suspension of reason, or a belief in something without evidence. However, genuine biblical faith is not about ignoring reality. Instead, it's about trusting in a Person: God Himself, who has revealed Himself through creation, His Word, and especially in Jesus Christ.

This kind of faith is informed faith. It's built on:

God's Revealed Character: Our trust in God stems from our understanding of His nature. He has consistently shown His faithfulness, power, love, wisdom, justice, and truthfulness throughout history and in our own lives.

When we say "God is good" it isn't wishful thinking; it's a statement of truth grounded in His unchanging character.

God has a perfect record of fulfilling His promises. From creation  to redemption, His word has never returned void. 

When God speaks, His word is active, powerful, and effective. It's not a mere suggestion or a hope; it carries the inherent power to achieve precisely what He intends. 

Just as rain and snow fall to water the earth and bring forth life, God's word always fulfills its purpose, whether it's for salvation, guidance, correction, or any other divine intention. It never fails to produce results according to His will.

Isaiah 55:10-11 NIV [10] As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, [11] so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

This give us a solid foundation for our trust in Him for the future.

As we walk with God, we experience His guidance, provision, comfort, and transforming power. These experiences deepen our knowledge of Him and solidify our conviction that He is trustworthy. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV says [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

It's like trusting a friend not because you're forced to, but because you've seen their integrity and reliability over time.

Philippians 1:3-6 NIV[3] I thank my God every time I remember you. [4] In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy [5] because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, [6] being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

This is a powerful assurance of God's faithfulness and His commitment to His children. because it assures us that He is actively involved in our spiritual journey from beginning to end.

IV. So, how do we cultivate this kind of faith in our own lives?

 It’s the same thing I say every week;

1. Engage with God's Word Regularly: Don't just read it; meditate on it, pray through it, and allow it to shape your understanding of God. When doubts arise, go back to the promises of God.

2. Practice Honest Prayer: Bring your doubts, your fears, your questions directly to God. He can handle them. Like the father in Mark 9, cry out, "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!"

3. Remember God's Past Faithfulness: Take time to reflect on how God has worked in your life, in the lives of others, and throughout history. Recalling His past faithfulness strengthens our trust for the future. 

Ask yourself like the person that wrote Psalm 42.

Psalms 42:11 NIV [11] Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

4. Engage with God’s Word, Pray Honestly, Remember God’s Faithfulness and then Surround yourself with other believers who can encourage you, pray for and with you, and who can remind you of God's truth when your own faith falters. 

Remember God never meant for us to walk this journey alone.

Conclusion

"Faith beyond doubt" is not the absence of questions or the never-ending experience of uncertainty. Faith beyond doubt is a deep, steadfast reliance on God's character and promises, allowing us to endure through every storm and uncertainty.

Like Abraham, we are called to be "being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." When doubts arise, and they will, don't let them define your faith. Instead, lean into God. Go to His Word. Pray honestly. Remember His faithfulness. And allow Him to strengthen your faith, giving Him glory, until you stand firm, unwavering, in His unfailing love and power.

Let us pray:

We thank You for Your Word, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.

Lord, we confess that doubt is a real part of our human experience. We acknowledge the times we've questioned Your promises, Your presence, or Your plan, especially when circumstances seem to contradict what we know to be true about You. 

We pray for a faith beyond doubt, not one that ignores reality, but one that is so profoundly rooted in Your character that it stands firm amidst uncertainty. Strengthen our conviction, Lord, that nothing is too hard for You. Help us to be fully persuaded that You have the power to do what You have promised.

We pray that we will remember Your faithfulness, so that we may stand firm, unwavering, in Your unfailing love and power, giving You all the glory.

We ask all of this in the mighty name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Aligning Our Lives with God's Will

This is the manuscript of the sermon preached at Christ Church Los Angeles Memorial Day weekend May 25, 2025.

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. [25]

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. (Matthew 7:24-27 NIV)

Have you ever felt like life is just… shifting? Like you're constantly trying to keep your balance on unsteady ground? We live in a world that often feels chaotic, unpredictable, and demanding. We're pulled in so many directions, chasing after the next big thing, the quick fix, the fleeting pleasure.

It's become clearer than ever that what truly sustains us through every single season – through the calm and the storms – is a strong foundation in faith and a deep, unwavering commitment to aligning our priorities with God's will. God bless you.

Scripture

Matthew 7:15-29 NIV [15]  “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. [16] By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? [17] Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. [18] A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. [19] Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. [20] Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.  [21]  “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ [23] Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’  [24]  “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. [25] 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. [26] 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. [27] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” [28] When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, [29] because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.

Memorial Day

Before we dive into our message today, let's briefly acknowledge the upcoming Memorial Day tomorrow. While it's often seen as the unofficial start of summer—a time for visiting the graves of loved ones, barbecues, beaches, and family gatherings—its origins are far more somber and significant. It's also important to remember that Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is not to be confused with Veterans Day, which falls in November. 

Memorial Day began in the years following the American Civil War, a conflict that claimed more lives than any other in our nation's history. It originated as "Decoration Day," a time when communities, both North and South, would adorn the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. The first widespread observance was in 1868, called for by General John A. Logan as a day for the nation to remember its war dead. Over time, it evolved from honoring Civil War casualties to commemorating all Americans who died in military service, finally becoming a federal holiday in 1971. It's a sacred day set aside to remember and honor the immense sacrifice of those who gave their lives for our freedoms.

Text

Matthew 7:24-27 NIV [24]  “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. [25] 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. 

I. Introduction 

Have you ever felt like life is just… shifting? Like you're constantly trying to keep your balance on unsteady ground? We live in a world that often feels chaotic, unpredictable, and demanding. We're pulled in so many directions, chasing after the next big thing, the quick fix, the fleeting pleasure.

As I've been reflecting lately, both in my own life and in observing the world around us, it's become clearer than ever that what truly sustains us through every single season – through the calm and the storms – is a strong foundation in faith and a deep, unwavering commitment to aligning our priorities with God's will.

This isn't just a one-time decision, a quick prayer, or a simple checkbox. This is a continuous, ongoing process, a lifelong journey that demands regular self-reflection, consistent effort, and, most importantly, an open heart to God's continuous, loving guidance. So, today, we're going to explore what it truly means to build our lives on this solid foundation.

II. The Imperative of a Strong Foundation

Think about building a house. If you were investing your life savings, your future, into constructing a home, would you ever consider building it on unstable ground, or on a flimsy base? Of course not! You'd insist on digging deep, pouring concrete, and laying a rock-solid foundation that could withstand anything. You'd want assurance that your home would stand firm.  Think about all the homes lost in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena fires. The houses burned but the foundations remained.

Jesus Himself, the wisest builder of all, tells us this, and it's our text for today.

Matthew 7:24-27 NIV [24]  “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. [25] 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. 

Elaboration: Our spiritual lives are no different. The storms of life will come. Hardship, disappointment, illness, loss, uncertainty.  It's not a question of if, but when. And when they come, what will you be standing on? A shaky, self-made ideology? The fleeting trends of our culture? Or the eternal, unshakeable truth of God's Word and His character? 

The wise person, Jesus says, is the one who not only hears His words but acts upon them. Jesus’ words, the Word of God, that’s our foundation.

III. Components of Building on Rock 

1: Hearing AND Doing God's Word

So, how exactly do we build this rock-solid foundation? It starts with the very first step Jesus mentions: hearing God's word and putting it into practice.

Matthew 7:24  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.

It’s so easy to be a hearer only, isn’t it? We read our Bibles, we listen to sermons, we attend conferences and attend Bible Study and all of that is good and necessary! But if that knowledge doesn't translate into action, into transformed living, then we're missing the main message.

James 1:22-25 NIV[22] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. [23] Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror [24] and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. [25] But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

In other words, our actions, our words, and our thoughts should align with the transformative truth of the Gospel.

To "just listen" implies a superficial interaction. We might hear the words, understand their intellectual meaning, and even agree with them in principle, but stop there. It's like listening to a lecture on how to swim without ever getting in the water. We can nod our heads, but we won't learn to swim.

The key phrase here is "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves.." This isn't about deceiving others, but deceiving ourselves. We might think we are growing, or that we are righteous, or that we are aligned with what we believe, simply because we are exposed to the "word." However, if there's no corresponding action, this belief is a mirage. We create an illusion of spiritual maturity or moral integrity that doesn't actually exist.

Familiarity with concepts can breed a false sense of accomplishment. We might know all the right verses, participate in discussions, attend services, and Bible study, but if these don't translate into tangible changes in our attitudes, decisions, and behaviors, then our knowledge is useless. It's like having a detailed map but never leaving the house.

This means seeking wisdom, understanding His commandments, and making choices that truly reflect His character, not just our own desires.

Don’t just listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

Ask yourself “Am I a doer of the Word, or just a hearer?” Am I actively applying what I read and hear and learn to my relationships, my finances, my work, my leisure, my inner thoughts? 

2: Aligning Our Priorities with God's Will

The first component to building a rock solid foundation is hearing God's word and putting it into practice. The second crucial component is aligning our priorities with God's will.

This is one of the most challenging aspects in our lives today. The world constantly pulls us in a thousand different directions. We're bombarded with messages about what we "should" pursue: more wealth, higher status, fleeting pleasures, instant gratification. It’s like a relentless current against which we have to swim. But when we consciously choose to prioritize God, everything else begins to fall into its rightful place.

Jesus gives us an incredible promise.

Matthew 6:31-34 NIV [31] So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ [32] For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. (here’s the promise) [33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. [34] Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

When we put God first – His kingdom, His way of doing things, His justice, His love – He promises to provide for our needs and guide us in all things. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

I realize that this is a radical trust, a letting go of our own perceived control, and an embrace of His perfect plan.  But here’s what happens when you have this radical trust.

Jeremiah 17:7-8 NIV [7] “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. [8] They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”

Here's that scripture again;

Romans 8:28-30 NIV [28] And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. [29] For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. [30] And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

Here's another familiar but very true one.

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV [6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

3: Regular Self-Reflection and Openness to Guidance

Finally, building on rock requires regular self-reflection and an openness to God's guidance. This isn't a "set it and forget it" process it is a constant, continuous one.

Self-Reflection: We need to honestly and prayerfully assess where we are. What's taking up our time, our energy, our deepest affections? Do those things truly honor God and advance His kingdom? Are we holding onto things that are hindering our spiritual growth – habits, attitudes, relationships? Are our actions truly reflecting our professed beliefs?

We must take an honest look at ourselves.

2 Corinthians 13:5 NIV Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? 

This self-examination isn't about self-condemnation, but about growth and refinement, like a spiritual diagnostic check-up.

But remember when we do that self diagnostic check-up we must be absolutely open to God's guidance. God speaks to us in countless ways – through His Word, through prayer, through the wise counsel of other believers, and through the quiet, persistent promptings of the Holy Spirit.

This means committed prayer, actively listening for His voice, studying His Word, and being willing to be led even when it's uncomfortable, unfamiliar, or goes against our own plans. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

IV. Conclusion and Call to Action

Building a strong foundation in faith is a continuous process. It's not about being perfect, it's about consistently seeking God, repenting when we fall short, and trusting in His unending grace.

The rewards of building on this rock are immeasurable. We get peace and we get purpose:

Peace: We get a peace that the world cannot give, even in the midst of chaos.

The peace the world gives is often superficial, conditional, and fleeting. It's dependent on circumstances – the absence of conflict, financial security, good health, comfortable living situations. It's an external peace that can be easily disrupted by troubles, anxieties, and changes in life. It's often temporary, not a deep, abiding tranquility.

John 14:26-27 NIV[26] But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. [27] Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

The peace that Jesus offers is internal, spiritual, and goes beyond circumstances. It's not the absence of trouble, but it’s the presence of God's calm and assurance in the midst of trouble. It's a peace that comes from knowing God, trusting in His sovereignty, and having reconciliation with Him through Christ. 

2 Corinthians 5:18-21 NIV [18] All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: [19] that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. [20] We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. [21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

This peace allows a person to remain untroubled and unafraid even when faced with fear, loss, or persecution. It's a gift of the Holy Spirit, guarding our hearts and minds.

Philippians 4:4-7 NIV [4] Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! [5] Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. [6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

I said that our rewards for building on rock also include purpose.

Purpose: I'm talking  about a clear, God-given purpose that gives meaning to every moment.

Even in difficulties, there's a divine purpose at play for "those who are called according to His purpose." This overarching purpose gives meaning to all things, even the challenging moments, because they are being woven into a larger good by God.

Romans 8:28-30 NIV [28] And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. [29] For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. [30] And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

The rewards of building on this rock include, peace, purpose, then there’s 

Unshakeable Hope: A hope that extends beyond this life, rooted in eternity.

This speaks of a "living hope" that comes through Christ's resurrection, directly connecting it to life beyond death. The "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven" vividly describes a hope rooted in eternity, secure and beyond the decay of this life.

1 Peter 1:3-5 NIV [3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, [4] and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, [5] who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 

 Call to Action/Challenge:

• Today, I want to challenge each of us: Are you building on the rock or on sand?

• Are you merely a hearer of the Word, or a doer?

• Are your priorities truly aligned with God's will, or are you chasing the temporary?

• Are you regularly examining your heart and opening yourself fully to His guidance?

Let's commit, starting today, to deepen our foundation. Spend time in His Word, reflect on your life, seek His presence in prayer, and be obedient to His leading.

Final Encouragement: The storms will come. But when your house is built on the rock, it will stand. And not just stand, but flourish, glorifying Jesus, the one who is our true and eternal foundation.

Let’s pray. Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. We thank You, Jesus, for being the Rock of our salvation. Lord, help us to be not just hearers, but doers of Your Word. Help us to align every priority, every thought, every action with Your perfect will. Give us the courage to self-reflect and the humility to be open to Your guidance. May our lives be built on Your unshakeable truth, so that when the storms come, we stand firm, giving You all the glory. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.