A House of Cards - Jewell Utt
By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. Proverbs 24:3-4 (NIV)
It’s raining again. Gray clouds cast darkness over my typically sun-filled space. I’m sensitive to the imposing shadow. It dims my glow.
A quick scan of the room reveals intention. Intricate designs, loving notes, precious faces, and treasured books coexist with a symphony of trickling water, Beethoven, and bird songs. Each trinket and sound a reminder of family, friends, and experiences.
Amid the beauty is a black rock. I keep it as a reminder that ugly exists. It symbolizes people, places, and circumstances that brought darkness into my world. I can focus on the black rock: dredging up past hurts, regrets, and unfortunate relationships. Or I can reflect on the blessings that surround me.
“God is light, in Him there is no darkness at all.” 1John 1:5. We can depend on the storms of life to pay regular visits, but we have a powerful refuge in God. When we seek to be in His presence, we are certain to gain His light. Wisdom is found when we regularly visit the hidden places He provides.
Matthew 7:24-27 says, “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. 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. 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. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
A house of cards is fragile, crumbling due to the slightest change. When we practice the presence of God, we build our house on His solid foundation, firm and secure. We can stand.
Ugly Happens. Expect it. Stay alert.
Establish your house on the rare and beautiful treasures found in Scripture. Being in His presence is an intentional pursuit. Why remain in darkness? His light will brighten your special place.
