Deuteronomy 22:8 (NKJV):“When you build a new house, then you shall make a parapet for your roof, that you may not bring guilt of bloodshed on your household if anyone falls from it.” In the Old Testament, God gave very practical and spiritual instructions to the Israelites — including this command to build a safety barrier around their rooftops. Why? Because many homes had flat roofs where people would gather, and without a parapet (a protective wall), someone could fall and die. In such a case, God would hold the owner of the house accountable for the bloodshed. But what does this have to do with us as New Testament believers? 1. Your Life Is Like a House Under Construction Jesus taught in Matthew 7:24-27 that whoever hears His words and obeys them is like a wise man who built his house on a rock. The rains came, the winds blew, but the house stood firm. In contrast, a foolish man builds on sand — and his house collapses. “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock…” – Matthew 7:24 This shows us that our spiritual life is like building a house. The foundation is salvation — faith in Jesus Christ. If you begin well, by laying the right foundation (Christ), you are on the path to stability and eternal life. But Jesus doesn’t stop at just the foundation. A house must be completed. That includes walls, a roof, and even the parapets — the finishing safety measures. 2. Don’t Just Build — Finish Wisely The Scripture in Deuteronomy tells us not to stop at laying a foundation or even putting up walls and a roof. God commanded the Israelites to complete their houses safely — with boundaries. Spiritually, this means that: It’s not enough to be saved. You must also set boundaries in your life to protect yourself and others. When a believer fails to live carefully, they not only put themselves in danger but can cause others to stumble. 3. Parapets Represent Boundaries in the Christian Life These protective “walls” or parapets symbolize boundaries of holiness and wisdom in our lives: How we dress Where we go How we speak What we listen to What we watch Who we associate with Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 8:9:“But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak.” And again in Romans 14:13:“…but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way.” Just as a lack of parapet might cause someone to fall off the roof, our lack of spiritual boundaries can cause others to fall into sin. 4. We Are Being Watched Whether we like it or not, unbelievers — and even new believers — are watching us. Paul reminds us: “You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men.” – 2 Corinthians 3:2 Your life preaches louder than your words. So if someone sees you: Dressing immodestly and yet claiming to be saved Listening to ungodly music and then leading worship Gambling, drinking, using vulgar language — yet testifying of Christ They may say, “If that is Christianity, I don’t want it.” You may become the reason they reject Christ. Jesus issued a serious warning: “But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” – Matthew 18:6 5. Build Your Life with Fear and Wisdom Let us take care how we live. Our Christian walk is not just about avoiding hell for ourselves, but also about leading others safely into the Kingdom of God. That means: Set personal boundaries. Watch your testimony. Be consistent in word and deed. Live with integrity. Don’t become a reason for others to mock or stumble. 6. Conclusion: Don’t Neglect the Final Stage of Your Building Starting well is not enough — you must finish well. Many start the Christian walk, but not all endure. Paul said: “But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.” – 1 Corinthians 9:27 Finish your house. Build the parapet. Be careful. Protect others through your conduct. Let your salvation not only be the foundation of your life but also the boundary that safeguards others around you. PRAYER:Lord Jesus, help me not only to begin the race of salvation but to run it faithfully to the end. Give me grace to live wisely, to walk in holiness, and to never be a stumbling block to others. Let my life bring glory to You. Amen. SHARE this message with others.Join our teaching channel on WhatsApp >> [Insert link here]
Have you ever dreamed that you were late for an important event—an exam, a job interview, a flight, or even a court session? If such dreams occur frequently, they are not mere coincidences. They may be a divine warning, urging you to reflect on your life and make necessary changes before it is too late. God Speaks Through Dreams The Bible teaches that God often communicates with people through dreams to guide and warn them: Job 33:14-18“For God speaks in one way, and in two, though man does not perceive it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on people as they slumber in their beds, He opens their ears and warns them, to turn them from wrongdoing and keep them from pride, to preserve them from the pit, their lives from perishing by the sword.” If you repeatedly dream of being late, it could mean that God is trying to get your attention. It may be a sign that you are delaying an important decision regarding your spiritual life. The Spiritual Message Behind Being Late Dreaming about being late symbolizes procrastination or negligence in spiritual matters. It may indicate hesitation in committing to God or a failure to prioritize what truly matters. Jesus illustrated this through the Parable of the Ten Virgins in Matthew 25. Ten virgins were waiting for the bridegroom. Five of them were wise and carried extra oil for their lamps, while the other five were foolish and unprepared. When the bridegroom was delayed, they all fell asleep. At midnight, a cry was heard announcing his arrival. The wise virgins quickly lit their lamps and went to meet him, but the foolish ones realized their lamps were going out. They rushed to buy more oil, but by the time they returned, the door was shut, and they were left outside. This parable directly relates to dreams of being late. It warns against spiritual complacency. Those who delay preparing for eternity may find themselves left behind when it matters most. A Wake-Up Call for Action If you often dream of being late, take it as a sign to examine your priorities. Are you postponing repentance? Are you distracted by worldly pursuits? Are you neglecting your spiritual growth? The Bible reminds us:“Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2) Waiting for the “right time” may cost you everything. Whatever is holding you back—whether career, relationships, or personal struggles—should not take precedence over your relationship with God. Steps to Take Now Repent and Seek God – If you have been distant from God, turn back to Him with sincerity. Confess your sins and seek His guidance. Commit to Spiritual Growth – Start reading the Bible regularly, praying, and surrounding yourself with people who encourage your faith. Take Bold Steps of Faith – If you have never been baptized, consider doing so as an act of obedience to Christ (Acts 2:38). If you have been lukewarm, renew your commitment today. Let Go of Distractions – Identify what is pulling you away from God and make adjustments to ensure He remains your priority. Final Encouragement Dreams of being late are not meant to scare you but to awaken you. They are reminders that time is limited and opportunities do not last forever. God, in His mercy, is giving you a chance to align your life with His will. Don’t wait until it’s too late—act now and secure your place in His kingdom. May God guide and strengthen you