Devotionals

Growing in Good Soil

by Jennifer Woodley 
05/30/24
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Mark 4:20 'But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.'(ESV)

We all understand that seeds will remain dormant and cease to sprout in poor quality soil. If the soil lacks moisture and nutrients or if it is riddled with rubble we wait in vain for germination. Likewise the Word of God will not take root and grow in hearts that are hardened against the LORD.

Because of our inclination towards sin, it is imperative that we attend to the condition of our hearts We ought to pray that God will keep our hearts soft and ready to receive His Word, bearing fruit as we apply our softened and pliable hearts to His instruction. And not just pray for ourselves, but for our family, our friends and those in the Body of Christ that they, with soft hearts, would remain open and eager to receive God's word.

Consider what cares of life may harden our hearts and choke out the word. Our desire is to grow like healthy plants, but the temptations and distractions of this life, like thorns and rubble, will quickly smother the work of the word and Spirit in our lives. We ought to beware particularly of the deceitfulness of riches and the trivial cares of this world, that will lure us away from Christ. Such is the treacherous scheme of the enemy who will not cease to deter us from faithfully following our LORD. May our hears be like rich soil where the gospel can take deep, permanent root and bear fruit to God's glory.