As I reflect on these verses, I’m struck by the grace that the “farmer” exhibits in spreading the seed everywhere — even in places that don’t have good soil. When I translate that over to God and His Word, I can see the inclusive nature of the gospel and how God doesn’t discriminate but invites us all in to know Him and His word. How deep is His grace that He even spreads the seed in places where He knows it won’t take root. I’m so thankful that God has allowed His word to take root in my life. He is always faithful to create good soil in us when we ask and surrender to Him. As you go throughout today, ask God to examine anything in your heart that isn’t soft and ready to receive His word. How can you be faithful to be a good spiritual “farmer” in the lives of those God has already put on your path?
"The farmer sows the word. Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.”
Mark 4:14-20