The Parable of the Sower (Part 2)

Matthew 13:3-6, 20-21 (NIV): “‘3 A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4 As he was scattering the seed… 5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root.’”

20 “‘The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.’”

Why Doesn't The Word Of God Stick Sometimes?

There’s something beautiful about an intimate moment with God - whether that be the joy of a worship night or an inspiring sermon. Here, Jesus describes that joy as a seed that springs up quickly, yet is scorched by the heat of the sun due to a lack of root. Spiritual excitement isn’t wrong, it’s a gift that let’s us experience closeness with our creator. Jesus warns us that emotion can’t carry us through the valleys. Some of us feel close to God when life is good, but fall into doubt the moment things get hard. That’s not because the Word failed us, it’s because our roots weren’t deep enough. But there’s always hope.

God is a gardener, His goal is to break through the hard places in our hearts - such as our disappointments, our pride, our wounds, and our expectations of how faith should look and feel. Here’s what’s beautiful - the same sun that scorches a shallow plant strengthens one with deep roots. If you stay planted, God will use trials and heat to develop your faith, not destroy it.

Now Let's Pray

Dear Heavenly Father thank You for the overwhelming joy and emotion Your Word and presence bring to us. Please give us the strength and discipline to build deep-rooted relationships with You, so that Your Word is not fleeting in our hearts during our trials. Remind us that each valley we experience is an invitation to grow closer to you.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.