Good Seeds

Luke 8: 11-15 Jesus said, “This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is God’s word. The seeds that fell on the footpath represent those who hear the message, only to have the devil come and take it away from their hearts and prevent them from believing and being saved. The seeds on the rocky soil represent those who hear the message and receive it with joy. But since they don’t have deep roots, they believe for a while, then they fall away when they face temptation. The seeds that fell among the thorns represent those who hear the message, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares and riches and pleasures of this life. And so they never grow into maturity. And the seeds that fell on the good soil represent honest, good-hearted people who hear God’s word, cling to it, and patiently produce a huge harvest.”

All of us face temptation but it seems to me that temptation is far more present and enticing than ever before.

Radio, television, internet, and virtually all advertising offer you “reasons” to stray from his word. They profess it is not only okay to covet your neighbor’s car, lifestyle or possessions, but you’re entitled to it and do what you must to get it! You are perpetually coerced into idolizing or worshipping the biggest stars in sports and entertainment, and enticed to be like them, regardless of their level of morality. With all the pain we face in this world, these sources tell us we deserve to feel good with temporary pleasures: the ends justify the means; pornography is just entertainment; truth is flexible. The words carved into Moses’ tablets are disappearing from public view.

True contentment does not lie at the end of these paths. There is always time to change direction. When we allow the seed of God’s word to grow and flourish in our hearts and actions, fulfillment is inevitable. Following the Golden Rule, praying through your decisions, and applying His Word through your actions spreads His love immeasurably among family, friends, co-workers, even strangers. God’s “seeds” are actually contagious, and the harvest will be eternal, if we all work the fields together.

Lord God may the seeds of Your Word take root in our hearts, minds and lives. Give us Your power to resist temptation. In Jesus’ name, amen.

By Anonymous