As we head into the New Testament in our Year of Living Biblically series, we're challenged to build our lives on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ. The central scripture, Matthew 7:24-27, paints a vivid picture of two builders - one wise and one foolish. We're called to be like the wise builder who hears Jesus' words and puts them into practice. This isn't just about belief, but about active, lived-out faith. The sermon emphasizes three key practices: raising a firm foundation by choosing the wisdom of Jesus, relying on that foundation especially in life's storms, and reinforcing it through consistent spiritual disciplines. We're reminded that Christianity isn't meant to be a comfortable, cultural experience, but a counterculture that's both offensive and attractive to the world. This message urges us to move beyond mere cultural Christianity and into a life of desperation for Jesus, where we're constantly stepping out in faith and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our everyday interactions.