TITLE: DO NOT SIMPLY HEAR THE WORDS OF JESUS; IMPLEMENT THEM IN PRACTICE
TITLE: DO NOT SIMPLY HEAR THE WORDS OF JESUS; IMPLEMENT THEM IN PRACTICE
SCRIPTURE: “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? 47 As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. 48 They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. 49 But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.” (Luke 6:46—49 NIV)
OBSERVATION:
Jesus begins this part by asking his disciples, “Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and yet don’t do what I say?” It’s a thoughtful question that invites reflection. The term ‘Lord’ implies someone with power, authority, or influence—a master or ruler. It’s a strong term that Jesus uses to challenge his disciples on their understanding of his role.
Jesus elucidates the implications for individuals who follow him and refer to him as Lord. A person who addresses him as Lord is one who approaches him, listens to his teachings, and implements them in practice. This constitutes the hallmark of an individual who acknowledges Jesus as Lord, Master, and Ruler of their existence. They must first approach him. Secondly, they must attentively listen to his teachings, and thirdly, they are required to apply his teachings in their lives.
I must acknowledge that, despite my recognition of Christ and his teachings, I often fall short in implementing those principles in my daily life. Engaging with the words of Jesus necessitates a constant commitment and interaction with his messages. The teachings of Jesus should fundamentally shape our existence, for they are synonymous with life itself.
Jesus stated, “I shall demonstrate to you an individual who approaches him, heeds his words, and implements them into practice. This individual will construct his life, or his dwelling, upon a robust foundation that is deeply anchored in rock. When a flood arrives, causing torrents to assail his or her life, it shall remain unshaken, for the foundation has been established with care.”
However, an individual who hears the words of Jesus but fails to implement them is akin to a man who constructed a house upon the ground without a foundation. At the moment difficulties arise and torrents strike, such a life or house will collapse, resulting in significant destruction.
Returning to the inquiry posed by Jesus to his disciples, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ yet fail to uphold my teachings?” This distinction is of paramount importance; by actively implementing the words of Jesus, while our lives may still encounter challenges, we will be better equipped to endure the tumultuous circumstances that may arise.
APPLICATION:
I aspire to designate this year as a period dedicated to the daily practice of the teachings of Jesus. I recognize that one of my weaknesses is my tendency to approach Christ and frequently hear His words, yet I fall short in consistently applying them throughout my journey with Him. Therefore, this year, I will exert every effort to integrate the teachings of Jesus into my daily life and transform this into a fundamental aspect of my existence life.
PRAYER:
Dear Heavenly Father, I pray for your continued guidance through your word, as it is essential to my life. Please grant me the courage to apply your teachings and to embody them each day. Help me to diligently pursue the path you have set for me. As I start this new year, I turn to you, Jesus. Amen!
