Matthew 13:18-23
This is the one who hears the word, but the worries and distractions of the world and the deceitfulness [the superficial pleasures and delight of riches choke the word, and it yields no fruit (Matthew 13:22, AMP ).

As we continue to watch the signs of the time and the challenges believers face around the world, there is need to understand what the Lord is saying to us (see Revelation 2:7).

Friend, one of the things the Lord is saying to us is that this is not the time to become preoccupied with the cares of this world. It is not the time to lose sight of fulfilling our purpose. The purpose of the church in this season is to be a light for the unlighted, to be salt on the earth and be all that God gave us in Christ Jesus. Though, we need money to preach the gospel, we must understand that God does not need us to provide the resources for this work.

Jesus said, “The seeds that fell among the thornbushes are also people who hear the message. But they start worrying about the needs of this life and are fooled by the desire to get rich. So the message gets choked out, and they never produce anything” (Matthew 13:22, CEV). They did not reflect His glory and failed to be epistles for others to read.

Friend, there is more to this life and the life after. Live for  God and He will take care of the rest. Do not be preoccupied with life. Refocus your life on what matters most – pleasing God and bearing fruits for Him. Shalom.

Your Turn

• Pray for yourself.

Song: Let my life be use for Your glory.

Reading through the New Testament: Acts 9