Bible in a Year : Psalms 46; Acts 17:1634
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 8:15 Sunflowers sprout in a carefree manner all over the world. Pollinated by bees, the plants spring up on the sides of highways, under bird feeders, and across fields, meadows, and prairies. To produce a harvest, however, sunflowers need good soil. Well-drained, slightly acidic, nutrient-rich soil with organic matter or composted, says the Farmers Almanac, finally produces tasty sunflower seeds, pure oil, and also a livelihood for hard-working sunflower growers.
We also need good soil for spiritual growth (Luke 8:15). As Jesus taught in His parable of the farmer scattering seed, Gods Word can sprout even in rocky or thorny soil (see vv. 67). It only thrives, however, in the soil of honest, good-hearted people who hear Gods word, cling to it, and patiently produce a huge harvest (v. 15 nlt).
Young sunflowers are just as patient in their growth. Following the suns movement throughout the day, they turn sunward daily in a process called heliotropism. Mature sunflowers are just as deliberate. They turn eastward permanently, warming the face of the flower and increasing visits from pollinator bees. This in turn produces a greater harvest.
As with those who care for sunflowers, we can provide a rich medium for Gods Word to grow by clinging to His Word and following after His Sondeveloping honesty and a good heart for Gods Word to mature us. Its a daily process. May we follow the Son and grow.
Whats the condition of your spiritual soil? Rocky, thorny, or rich in spiritual nutrients? Why? When you follow the Son daily, how does this practice impact your honesty and heart?
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(((HUGS)))