Read -- Matthew 13:1-23

"The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful."

During my walk with Christ I have seen many who seem to have turned their backs on Jesus and have chosen to no longer associate themselves with God's people or the church. Though it grieves my heart, Jesus warned us that this would happen. All of the gospels except John record Christ's teachings on the "Parable of the Sower." See Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-20; and Luke 8:4-15.

I felt helpless and was saddened to learn of a young lady who had chosen to return to her old ways of alcohol and denial of Christ. Here was one who had sat in Bible studies which I had lead and now was turning to the bottle for comfort and answers. I felt helpless and feelings of inferiority even entered into my mind. "If only I had done more or ...." These thoughts and feelings were quickly put into check and into a right prospective while reading the 13th chapter of Matthew.

We, as Christians and believers in Christ, are called to be fruitful and to faithfully share the Word of truth with those we come in contact with. However, we are also to realize that not all will receive the Word and allow it to become fruitful in their lives. The parable speaks of the seed falling on four different situations: along the wayside, upon the rocks, among the thorns, and on the good ground.

I believe, we Christians are called to intercede on behalf of those who are struggling with the cares or thorns of this world. We should also be patient to allow God to work in the lives of others and not give up on them. We read in 1 Corinthians 15:58, "Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." However, we should not forget that God has allowed us to make the choice whether or not to follow and remain committed to Him.

May God bless you as you share the Word and love of Jesus with others.

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