Published Date: July 30, 2018
SCRIPTURE:
The farmer sows the word.
(Mark 4:14 NIV)
DEVOTIONAL:
Remember the story of the farmer who planted seed on various types of soil, which yielded up different results for each one. The disciples asked Jesus the meaning of the parable, so Jesus explained:
The farmer sows the word. Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.”
The “soil” of our heart is vitally important, not only to our eternal salvation, but to every area of our lives. This parable reveals some of the things that can block a person from understanding the Gospel and from receiving all that God has for them. Watch out for these truth stealers: easily deceived, superficial understanding, the cares of this life and an excessive desire for material riches.
Be like the person with the heart that is good “soil”—Hear the Word, accept it, do it, and you will receive an abundant harvest!
PRAYER:
Dear God, I ask You to correct me if my heart is not “good soil” that will be faithful and productive. Give me ears to hear what the Holy Spirit is saying and a heart to obey fully Your Word and Your will. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.