January 5, 2024

Jesus does a great job in this parable of describing why some people don’t make it in their faith or why many live fairly defeated lives. The biggest reason is this one. They have no roots. Making a “decision” for Jesus isn’t enough. Having an “experience” at camp, convention, or revival doesn’t last. The heart of being a Christ-follower is making a COMMITMENT. A commitment to stay. A commitment to learn. A commitment to grow. Faith takes roots if it’s going to last. Coming to Christ is a lot like getting married. The wedding is only the beginning. The hard work starts the very next day!
Notice in the passage that Jesus talks about the “hot sun.” A little later in the story, Jesus says the hot sun represents problems and persecutions. And just like every marriage has them, every walk of faith has them as well. You will have setbacks. You will have health issues. You will have financial struggles. You’ll come across people in your life who make you crazy—most of whom will be right in your own home. You will go through times when it seems that God is not answering your prayers. The hot sun of discouragement, disappointment, and disillusionment will be part of your journey. The only question is, will you have the roots to withstand them?
Get rooted. Develop a prayer life that keeps you in constant contact with God. Prayer is POWERFUL—not just as a source to move God, but also as a source to keep you steadfast. Cultivate the root of God’s Word in your life. His promises are an anchor when the storms threaten to blow you away. Develop the root system of God’s People. Like the interlocking roots of tall trees, there is safety and strength in numbers. Make no mistake, the hot sun of problems and persecutions are coming. Will YOU have the roots to remain strong? That’s God’s Word for you today.