Definition: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical passage together. It's a really powerful verse from Matthew 7, and it speaks about faith and perseverance. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a situation where someone is facing significant challenges – things that are difficult, stormy, and potentially destructive. The "house" represents the person's life or faith. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the rain descended, and the floods came…” This means there were times of hardship, trouble, and overwhelming difficulties in someone's life. It wasn’t just a little drizzle; it was serious challenges. “…and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not:” This is where it gets really significant. The "winds" represent temptations, opposition, or negative influences from others. “Beat upon” suggests relentless pressure and struggle. But it didn’t fall – this is the key part! “For it was founded upon a rock.” This is the crucial point. The verse says that this person's life or faith wasn't built on a shaky foundation. It was built on something solid, reliable, and strong - their belief in God. So, what does this mean practically? It’s a reminder that: Faith is important: A strong faith provides stability and resilience in the face of adversity. Perseverance matters: We don't give up when things are tough; we must keep going even when it feels like everything is falling apart. Our foundations are vital: Our beliefs, values, and relationships – these are what truly anchor us and sustain us through life’s challenges. In essence, the verse encourages us to trust in God's promises, to hold firm to our principles, and to not be discouraged by difficulties. It's a call to stay steadfast and resilient, knowing that even when things seem chaotic, our foundation is strong. Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with examples? Discuss the meaning of each part in more detail?