What's Happening at Willow this Week

The psalmist said, “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it” (Psalm 127:1). This is true in all aspects of life. There is no effort that we can put forth in this life that will give substance to our life if God is not the “builder” of our life.

We are constantly reminded of the threat of terrorism, a seemingly imminent war, and the effects that these things would have on our daily living. It is good to know that we have a strong military to defend this nation. It is nice to be able to put confidence in our government to lead us in the right direction. We must realize, though, that “Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman keeps awake in vain” (Psalm 127:1). Our confidence is not in man, but in the Most High God. He is our provider, our protector, and in Him alone do we find peace.

What is true for our nation is also true for the church. As long as we seek to please God, He will provide for us and bless our efforts. If we build on the wisdom of man or to fulfill the desires of man, we build in vain. We may build elaborate buildings and draw large crowds, but we do so in vain, for “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.”

The same principle applies to our homes. Many homes are laid to waste because Daddy and Mama are so busy trying to provide “things” for their families that they neglect the needful things. God must come first. Children need to learn from their parents that nothing is more important than our Lord and His church. Listen to what David says; “It is vain for you to rise up early, to retire late, to eat the bread of painful labors; for He gives to His beloved even in his sleep” (Psalm 127:2). Let us redeem the time we have to teach the most important things to our children, not just with words, but as they observe us as we spend time together.

So... who builds your house?

With love, Michael