"The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop."
- Matthew 8:14-15
In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus used this narrative to illustrate how the Word of God flourishes to the souls that receive the Good News. There are those who hear the Word but the devil interferes and they do not believe and are not saved. These people are like seeds that fall on a path that get trampled on. There are those who hear the Word and rejoice. They believe for a moment and when tested, they fall away like seeds on a rocky ground unable to take root.
Then there are those who hear the Word but are burdened by life's worries, tempted by earthly riches and pleasures and they do not mature in their faith. They are like seeds that grew into plants and are choked by thorns.
I have been thinking a lot about these seeds growing in thorns lately. With the troubles of the pandemic, many including myself have been challenged by difficulties of uncertainty, burdened by impact of COVID-19 on family and friends, feeling isolated through lockdowns, and yearning for financial security. Despite knowing that God provides, it has been a true test of faith to leave the worries to Lord and to focus on Him. A small but deep part of me though is unyielding and unwilling to be a plant being choked out by daily woes of life. I continue to pray that my faith can withstand thorns and grow on firm footing in the light of Christ.
My soul hopes that I can be the seed on good soil. I want to hear the Word, retain it, and persevere to grow and flourish in Christ.
You, too, have heard the Word. And knowing the Good News, where does your seed lie? On the path, on rocky ground, amongst thorns, or on good soil?
Reflection: If your seed is on the path, on rocky ground, or amongst thorns, what must you do to ensure that the seed is relocated to be on good soil? How can you fix your sight on God and maintain a noble and good heart that receives the grace of God unburdened by the distractions of life?
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As you plant the seed of the Word of God on good soil to help your faith grow, read this week's devotional study and listen to our various gospel, hymn, and worship music channels on Christian Calm Radio.