God’s Mission
Matthew 13:20-21
The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives 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.
~ Jesus
In telling the parable of the sower, Jesus highlights the impact of persecution on the life of those who are under the influence of God's Word.
In this second set of soil, known as rocky ground, the Word of God takes root quickly but withers under intense heat. This heat is later identified by Jesus as persecution. In Matthew 5:10 Jesus talks about the blessing that comes from enduring persecution. Here in Matthew 13 we see Jesus acknowledging the blessing that is missed because of persecution. It all depends on how one handles the persecution.
Between these two Gospel stories we find Jesus telling His disciples “you will be hated by everyone because of me but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved” (Matthew 10:22). The mission of God has always been the salvation of His people. But not all of those people respond to His call. In fact, many not only reject the call, but mistreat those who respond to God’s call. Jesus says, “you will face trouble in this world, but take heart. I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Prayer
Ask God to aid your heart and life in being good soil for His Word to produce a bumper crop. Then pray for others to experience the same blessings.
Micro-Meditation Scripture
Psalm 119:113-120 (Samekh, 15th letter)
- I hate double-minded people,
but I love your law. - You are my refuge and my shield;
I have put my hope in your word. - Away from me, you evildoers,
that I may keep the commands of my God! - Sustain me, my God, according to your promise, and I will live;
do not let my hopes be dashed. - Uphold me, and I will be delivered;
I will always have regard for your decrees. - You reject all who stray from your decrees,
for their delusions come to nothing. - All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross; therefore I love your statutes.
- My flesh trembles in fear of you;
I stand in awe of your laws.
Micro-Meditation
Teaching or Command of God
1 Corinthians 15:33
Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”
Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Micro-Meditation
Pondering Point
Double-minded people are wavering, undecided, or vacillating. The Psalmist is not wavering or undecided over God.
Are you following no matter what, or has wavering or vacillating crept in? Pray that your faith stays strong.