Holiness and righteousness are a source of strength, power, and protection. Isaiah describes a strong, fortified city in which only the righteous may enter. It also requires trust in the Lord, who is always faithful and true. We cannot allow ourselves to be frightened and cowed by the powers and forces of this world. We have our God, and when we walk in his ways, his mantle protects us.

The New Testament does not think very highly of elaborate displays of piety. There are many people, who although very religious, do not show this faith in their everyday lives or the way they treat others. Jesus insists that merely crying, 'Lord, Lord' loudly and often does not guarantee us a place in heaven. It is those who hear the word of the Lord and act on it that are saved. When we do so, we build a strong, righteous, and holy person, just like the house built on a firm foundation in the gospel story. We will not be swept away by the challenges and struggles of life but will stand firm and flourish. Walking in the Lord's ways and doing his will is soul-building.