Soil

“This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God. Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. 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. Luke 8:11-15

This is a gem of a moment, in which Jesus interprets His parable. In response to a request from His disciples, Jesus goes on to reveal some great spiritual truth. What do we know from what Jesus says? God’s Word is the seed. The soil represents the heart of a man. The same seed is sown generously over every type and potential is for produce is even across the board. What determines growth?

It is the receptivity of a man’s heart the determines the yield from God’s Word. A man with a heart that is soft towards God is like a freshly tilled farmer’s field. Properly cared for, the seed will always do best in this situation. Want to see some dynamic spiritual progress in your life? The seed is not the issue; it is always the soil. Tend to the soil through regular times of prayer, worship, and meeting with men who will help you stay receptive towards God.

DO THIS TODAY: Ask another man to pray for you.