A great crowd gathered by the lake. Jesus taught them the secrets of the kingdom of God by parables. Explaining God's truth with everyday examples was an excellent way to help the crowd understand the spiritual world. Jesus also said those on the outside may never understand the truth. Those who refuse to accept the gospel may see and hear but lose the chance to receive forgiveness (12).

Jesus told a parable about a farmer who sows seeds. The seeds represented the Word of God. And the story focused on the soil that receives the seeds. Some seeds fell on the path, which was not ready to receive the seeds. Some fell on rocky soil that lacked the depth to support sufficient growth of the root. The seeds that fell among thorns could not grow properly and bear fruit because the fast-growing thorns choked the plant. However, the good soil received the seeds, and they bore fruit, multiplying a hundred-fold (20).

As Jesus spoke parables to plant the Word of God in the hearts of all who heard him, only some accepted the truth and produced fruit as followers of Jesus. What can you do to prepare your heart to receive the Word of God so that God produces a great crop?


Application: Father, cultivate my heart and make me good soil.
One Word: I want a heart like good soil