When the Roots Don’t Go Deep
There is something exciting about new growth.
Jesus says that some seed falls on rocky ground. It springs up quickly because there is only a thin layer of soil. At first, everything looks wonderful.
There is growth. There is joy. There is life.
But then the sun rises.
Because there is no depth, the plant withers.
Jesus says this person receives the Word “with joy,” but has no root. When trouble or persecution comes because of the Word, they stumble.
That’s a sobering picture of faith. Following Jesus is wonderful — but Jesus never promised that following Him would always be easy. Eventually, obedience will cost us something. There will be moments when God’s Word contradicts our preferences. There will be times when faithfulness affects a relationship, a decision, a career, a friendship, or our reputation.
The question isn’t whether trials will come. The question is whether our roots are deep enough when they do.
Trials can actually become places where God strengthens us. James tells us that the testing of our faith produces perseverance. Romans tells us that suffering can produce perseverance, character, and hope.
Sometimes God uses difficult seasons to take us deeper.
What are the “rocks” beneath the surface of your heart?
Bitterness?
Fear?
Unforgiveness?
Shame?
Disappointment?
Those things don’t have to remain there. Bring them into the light. Confess them. Pray over them. Ask God to remove what is preventing your roots from going deeper.
A shallow faith looks impressive when the weather is perfect. Deep faith is revealed when the storm arrives.
And God is still able to make your roots go deeper.