What dampens enthusiasm most, and how should we guard against that?

Matthew 13:20-22“The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word. The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced.”

Just as weeds steal a plant’s sunlight, water, and nutrients, so earthly priorities and pleasures can steal our enthusiasm for God. Those who are spiritually flagging may have lost enthusiasm for their mission. Those who do not root themselves deeply in the Lord have no place for the seeds of God’s Word to grow, and without that depth, the hot sun of persecution or adversity causes enthusiasm to wither. Their sense of purpose fades, and along with it, their relationship with God.