Something Better: A Message for Life and Faith
Rethinking Common Sense Through the Lens of God’s Wisdom
Have you ever encountered a moment where faith seemed to challenge your common sense? There are times when we hear a statement from a Christian that appears to contradict what feels logical or practical. It can be unsettling, even frustrating, as though someone is telling you that your perspective is flawed. But here’s the truth: the issue isn’t that common sense is wrong. Rather, the issue is that God offers us something better.
The Foundation of Wisdom
To explore this idea, we can gain a better understanding by looking to Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7:24-27—the parable of the wise and foolish builders. Jesus describes two individuals constructing homes. One builds on rock, ensuring a strong, lasting foundation, while the other builds on sand, a foundation that erodes when the storms come. On the surface, both builders are engaging in an activity that seems practical and necessary: building shelter. But the focus of Jesus’ teaching isn’t on their skills as builders—it’s on their choice of foundations. The wise builder aligns their decisions with the truths of God’s Word, creating a life that can weather any storm. The foolish builder, meanwhile, relies on what seems practical at the moment but lacks the foresight of divine wisdom. Their foundation falters when tested.
This parable teaches us that while common sense has its place, it cannot provide the depth and stability of a life built upon God’s principles. Practical decisions are important, but they must be rooted in the eternal truths found in Scripture if they are to endure.
The Three Aspects of Faith
Understanding how to build a life on God’s foundation begins with faith. But what does that mean in practice? Faith, from a Christian perspective, can be understood through three key dimensions: cognitive, relational, and volitional.
- Cognitive: This is the intellectual aspect of faith. It involves understanding and embracing the truths of God’s Word. It’s the knowledge that forms the basis of wise decision-making. Philippians 2:5 talks about having the mind of Christ. The “mind of Christ” allows believers to discern spiritual truths and understand God’s plans.
- Relational: This aspect focuses on trust, the personal relationship we have with God. It’s about leaning into His promises and believing in His goodness, even when circumstances challenge our understanding. Faith isn’t a dispassionate intellectualism. Faith is heartfelt. Because we love God, we want to follow Him. Jesus said; “If you love me, you’ll keep my commandments”( John 14:15)
- Volitional: This is where faith takes action. It’s about applying what we know and trust to the choices we make in our everyday lives. It’s the active expression of faith in our decisions.
When these three aspects of faith are understood and applied, it becomes easier to see a broader perspective rather than a limited, individual one. As Ephesians 2:10 says; We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Looking for God’s perspective through the gifts He has equipped us with allows us to make decisions not simply based on common sense but on the wisdom of God, whose perspective far surpasses our own.
The Limitations of Common Sense
One of the reasons why people face limitations when making decisions can be found in 1 Corinthians 2:14, which says, “The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.” This verse highlights a critical truth: the carnal mind, grounded solely in common sense and worldly reasoning, struggles to comprehend the things of God. It’s not that common sense is impractical or flawed In some way; it’s that it is limited. It can’t grasp the depth, beauty, and complexity of God’s wisdom.
This is why relying on common sense alone can lead to challenges in understanding spiritual truths. Without the guidance of God’s Word and Spirit, we risk missing the greater picture—the “something better” that God offers us through His principles and purposes.
Something Better
So, what is this “something better”? It’s a life led by spiritual discernment, a way of thinking and living that goes beyond mere practicality. It’s making choices that align with God’s Word, even when they defy human logic. And it’s trusting that His wisdom will guide us toward outcomes that reflect His will and bring Him glory. As Proverbs 16:1-3 says; To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue. All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord. Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.
This approach is vital not just for our personal lives but also for our corporate decisions as a church. Whether we’re deciding on the direction of our church or navigating personal challenges, it is important to look beyond the surface-level wisdom of common sense and seek God’s perspective. Only then can we fully align ourselves with His plans.
Living the Truth
As you reflect on this message, take a moment to consider the decisions you’re facing today. Are you relying solely on what seems practical? Or are you seeking God’s guidance through Scripture and prayer? Are you engaging the cognitive, relational, and volitional aspects of your faith to make choices that honor Him? Building your life on the rock of God’s wisdom doesn’t just prepare you for the storms—it transforms the way you experience life itself.
Conclusion
There’s nothing wrong with common sense. It’s a valuable gift that helps us navigate much of what life throws our way. But as followers of Christ, we are called to seek something better. That “something better” is a foundation built on God’s Word, His Spirit, and His wisdom. It’s a life that reflects His principles and purposes, both in the decisions we make and the way we live. Let’s commit together to building on the rock of God’s truth, trusting Him to guide us toward His perfect plan. In doing so, we’ll find not only stability but also the joy and peace that come from living in alignment with His will.
Pastor John
Bible Memory Verse
Week 1 – 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” –2 Timothy 1:7, KJV
Week 2 – John 14:6 “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – John 14:6, ESV
Week 3 – Romans 3:23 “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” – Romans 3:23, NIV
Week 4 – Ephesians 2:8 “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.” – Ephesians 2:8, ESV
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Sunday School – 8:30 AM in the Community Building
Choir Practice Will Resume In September
You may reach Pastor John at #607-651-4760 or at his.ship@gmail.com
E-Mail Carolyn White with any praises, joys, or prayer requests (whisperpines@frontiernet.net) throughout the week.
Thursday, June 5th – PW – 11am
Sunday, June 8th – 3pm – Barnes Kasson Service – if you would like to help, see Pastor John
Saturday, June 14th – Flag Day
Sunday, June 15th – Trinity Sunday
Sunday, June 15th – Happy Father’s Day
Wednesday, June 18th – Men’s Breakfast – 8am
Saturday, June 21st – First Day of Summer
Tuesday, June 24th – Newsletter Deadline
NOTE: Our website is: www.franklinhillpresbyterian.org where you can access online messages, event calendar, our church newsletter, mission, etc. Check it out when you can! Also check our Facebook Page! Phone #570-967-2075