Daily Bread 3-9-17

Mark 4:14-19

14 The Sower soweth the word.

15 And these are they by the wayside, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word which was sown in their hearts.

16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;

17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.

18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,

19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.

ref. - Matt 13:19 - When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then come the wicked one, and cacheth away that which was sown in his heart. this is he which received seed by the wayside.

2 Co 4:4 - In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

Ps 52:7 - Lo, this is the man that made not God his strength; but trusted in the abundance of his riches, and strengthened himself in his wickedness.

Lk 18:24 - And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, how hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!

A very familiar parable and still holds true today. The question for today is, where is the seed planted in us? Do we think of fleeing when times get too tough? Do we think of fleeing when times are too good? When we are told that we don't know anything and put down by worldly men? What about when we think that we already know enough and do not want to listen and learn any longer? You see, this scripture goes much further than just what is in a man's pocket. It goes to those who no longer listen because they already think that they know all there is to know. Truth is, the day we stop learning and improving will be the day that we are to be judged. There are so many diversions out there to take us away from following Christ that it is sometimes hard to stay focused. The word of God tells us that the closer we get the harder the battle will become, but if we are armed it will not be a hard fought battle. The things of the world will not be our priority any longer but the things of God will. So today we must ask ourselves, where has the seed been sowed in us? We already know that this battle cannot be fought on a battlefield with guns and swords, but it is a battle within ourselves and the spirits that are around us. Nothing can be done that will last without the Spirit of God on our side. One way or another we will be overcome. Whether it be riches, trials and tribulations, or just our own vanity. Without being rooted and grounded in the wonderful gospel of

Christ we will not endure. So, today, let us make a decent effort to go to prayer and ask our Lord to let his will be done in our souls, planting his purpose, his direction, and his love, deep within our souls where the roots can never be plucked out! Have a great day!!!