Staying Power

Read: Matthew 13:1-23

The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message about the Kingdom and don’t understand it. Then the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their hearts. Matthew 13:19

IN WORD

Jesus didn’t always explain the meaning of His parables, but this one comes with defining details. After all, the “secrets of the Kingdom” had been given to these followers (Matthew 13:11); they needed to know what the secrets meant. In this case, Jesus gave them a powerful picture of our responses to Kingdom truth. Some people don’t understand it; some accept it eagerly but can’t hold on to it through pain and persecution; some receive it and get distracted by this-world concerns, rendering their lives unfruitful; and some receive it, understand it, and flourish in it. Four responses: rejecting it, dropping it, choking it, or growing in it. And four outcomes: missing out; having but losing; having but without power; and having and thriving. Everyone who hears the Kingdom message falls into at least one of these categories—sometimes several over the course of his or her life.

We have to recognize the adversaries and obstacles in the Kingdom life. There’s an enemy that snatches truth out of people’s hearts. There are normal trials and tribulations of life that seem to contradict the Kingdom message. And there are anxieties and concerns related to money, work, relationships, health, and more, which deceive us about what’s important and draw our attention away from Kingdom purposes. Everyone faces these adversaries and obstacles, but not everyone responds to them the same way. Only those who cling to Kingdom truth above all else will flourish in the Kingdom.

IN DEED

That’s why it’s vital to pay attention to God’s voice, persevere in following what He says, and refuse to be distracted from it. Only people with vision and resolve can do that. Others may taste the Kingdom without ever flourishing in it, but we want the full experience. Our goal is not just to survive; it’s to thrive. Cling to words of life, and you’ll receive whatever they promise.

ADDITIONAL READING: Luke 12:22-31

It is unbelief that prevents our minds from soaring into the celestial city and walking by faith with God across the golden streets.

A. W. TOZER