The Thorns That Choke the Word
Jesus’ third kind of soil may be the easiest to overlook because, at first, it looks healthy.
The seed takes root. Something is growing. But there are thorns growing alongside it. Eventually, the thorns choke the plant and make it unfruitful.
Jesus identifies the thorns as “the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches.”
Worry and wealth.
Cares and cash.
Two things that can quietly take over our hearts.
The problem isn’t that we have responsibilities. Jesus isn’t telling us to abandon our jobs, ignore our bills, or stop caring for our families. The problem is what happens when legitimate concerns become ultimate concerns.
We begin saying:
“I know what God’s Word says, but…” That little word can reveal a great deal about the condition of our hearts.
“I know God says forgive, but…”
“I know God calls me to trust Him, but…”
“I know God calls me to generosity, but…”
“I know God calls me to purity, but…”
The thorny heart doesn’t necessarily reject God’s Word. It simply allows other things to compete with it. And eventually, the thorns win.
Jesus offers us a better way.
He doesn’t simply tell us to worry less. He tells us where to take our worries: to Him.
“Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”
And He doesn’t simply tell us to love money less. He calls us to treasure something infinitely greater.
Himself.
Your calendar reveals something about your priorities. Your bank statement reveals something about your priorities. Your attention reveals something about your priorities.
So ask yourself today:
What is growing alongside Christ in my heart?
And is it beginning to choke the fruit?