(Roots and Fruit Part 2) Matt Richards
Luke 8 ..have no root; they believe for a while, and in time of testing fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. (ESV) And the seed that fell in the weeds—well, these are the ones who hear, but then the seed is crowded out and nothing comes of it as they go about their lives worrying about tomorrow, making money, and having fun. (MSG)
I have some Campanula flowers growing. Often times they will get surrounded by this creeping Ivy and if not pulled up, the weed, the ivy will strangle the plant. I have seen this so so many times with people too. Someone makes a commitment to Jesus. Their life radically changes for the better. Addiction goes, anger dissipates, they get housed and even employment. Then they just get taken up, crowded out with life. Work, money, cares, pleasures, boyfriend or girlfriend. They forget, they have no time for Jesus. Soon or later within a few months even they have lost it all. I was talking to someone in prison this week and this is his story. It's like people start off well but then when on their feet they say, "hey I don't need you anymore Jesus, I'll take it from here". Except they don't consciously think like that; it just progressively happens. And like the Frank Sinatra song they want to do it "my way" and they end up backslidden and messed up doing it their way, back to square one, or worse. You see people need discipleship. If you have made a commitment to Jesus recently. If you have asked Him to forgive you, and meant it then you need to be discipled. Without training, mentorship, encouragement, help, fellowship and, guidance you too may find you don't mature. Don't be a weedy Christian, stay off the weed and be close to Jesus, get discipled and deal with weeds in your life. Prayer:
Father forgive me for being weedy. Help me to mature to discipled. I don't want to go back but forward in You and be fruitful in Jesus' name, Amen.
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