The Time of Testing

We're looking again at Luke 8:5-15 where Jesus shares a parable about a farmer who goes out to sow his seed. The seed represents the Word of God. The four soils represent four heart conditions. Last time, we looked at what happens to the seed that lands on the hard path. Today, we'll consider the seed that lands on the rocky soil.

First, let's remember that the seed is the same in all four soils. If there's a problem with growth, we can't blame the seed.

Jesus goes on to explain that the rocky ground is referring to people who receive the word with joy. They're excited about it. Maybe it's a sermon. Or a Bible study. Or personal time in the word. Whatever the case, they've heard the word and they're excited and encouraged.

"But."

That's one of those words in the Bible I take note of. Often, I will circle it for emphasis. Other conjunctions I take note of, include: if, however, because, therefore, yet and so that. Those words let me know something important is coming next.

In Luke 8:13, Jesus says, "Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root."

Earlier, he explained that because of the rocky ground, when the plants came up, they withered because they had no moisture.

In front of our house, we have three hanging baskets of flowers. Two of them look nice. One is withered because it has not moisture. Soon after buying the baskets, a bird built a nest in one of them, so I no longer water that one. And it's evident by the condition of the plant.

Jesus then explains that because they have no root system or moisture, they believe for a while, but when the time of testing comes, they fall away. In Mark's gospel, he says it this way, "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."

It's interesting that Mark makes note of the fact that trouble or persecution comes because of the word. When we hear God's word, when we receive it with joy, it's also critical to recognize that a time of testing is coming.

The trouble, trial or test may simply be a consequence of living in a fallen world and/or it may be a situation that the Lord allows or orchestrates to reveal that His word is true and that it can be trusted.

For example, let's say someone hears the word regarding being a generous giver and that God also promises to meet their needs when we give. They receive it with joy. They're excited to take a step of faith. And so even though it will stretch them, they give some money to help someone in need.

And then their car breaks down. And the repair bill is very close to the same amount they gave away.

With no root, they will likely conclude this whole giving thing doesn't work and they were foolish for believing it in the first place. And they may fall away.

So the question is this: knowing that tests, trials and trouble are coming, how do I develop a healthy root system in my relationship with the Lord?

Like in any relationship, the answer is: TIME. Time alone with Him. Time in His word. Time talking with Him. Time listening to Him. Time writing in a journal. Time praying. Time with others who are also committed to growing in Him.

But this isn't a "have to" or a "should" kind of thing. This is a "get to" thing. This is an invitation to spend time with the One who made me, who knows me best, who has only good plans for me, who delights in me, who loves me perfectly, who wants to impart wisdom, who enjoys my friendship.

If you're not already doing it, I encourage you to set aside time each day to meet with the Lord. For me, it's early in the morning before the busyness of the day takes over.

My Bible, my journal, a pen and a cup of coffee is how I start the day. Next time, I'll share what I actually do during this time. For now though, make the decision to set aside time each day to be alone with the Lord. It will develop your root system and prevent falling away.