Scripture - Mark 4:16-17 Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 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.
Observation - Jesus is giving a great explanation to the nature of some of us. We are so excited over the things that are happening that we forget to dig in and grow some roots. We have the joy of a new found revelation but don't take the time to dig it into our heart and into our spirit and when something happens, not if something happens, but when something happens we quickly fall away. Jesus is giving instruction here to the disciples in this parable to help people dig deep. It is like the old oak tree that can stand through any storm because the roots are deep in the ground and strong to the test. We need to dig our roots deeper and deeper everyday.
Application - Farming is very interesting. It is all about the root. The root is the lifeblood of the plant. With strong roots you get strong plants that give strong fruit. But it takes cultivation. You have to take care of the soil and plant well and then give the roots moisture and fertilizer to grow strong. If the soil is hard and rocky the roots can not grow. They become weak and brittle. Everyday must be a new endeavor to prepare the soil and take care of the root. Don't let the ground of your soul get rocky and hard with no water from the word. The bible says "washed in water by the word" that refreshing touch of the word of God that will allow us to build and grow great roots.
Prayer - God don't ever let the reading of your word become a task. Please help me to find refreshing in your word and growth in your word. God I need to have a touch from your word every day that cultivates the soil of my heart. God I love you and want to grow closer to you than ever before.
