Good and bad soil (3) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

Some (seed) fell on stony places, where they did not have much earth, and they immediately sprang up because they had no depth of earth. But when the sun was up, they were scorched, and because they had no root they withered away.
Matthew 13:5.6.

Good and bad soil (3)
The second kind of soil was stony. A thin layer of earth covers it, on which the seed falls and quickly germinates. But it cannot form deep roots. When the sun begins to shine, it is burnt and withers away. Good seed was again sown, but brought joy only briefly; then all was again bare.

In this case someone has felt touched by the Word of God. He may agree that he is a sinner and is glad that God wishes to forgive and bless. He can also enjoy the blessing of the fellowship of Christians. He "immediately receives it with joy" (v. 20).

The grain of seed, however, could not take root. This means that no true change of attitude has taken place. The person was not converted to God, was not born again and has no sure relationship with Christ. So long as the external circumstances in the Christian circle are favourable, that may not be conspicuous. But it will immediately come to light when tribulation or persecution arises. True believers pray to God for preservation and help in such times of need. But where the Word of God has not taken root, everything is quickly "thrown overboard" (cf. vv. 20.21).

Even today someone can react enthusiastically on hearing the Word of God. But aren't sorrow and pain the first reaction when God's Word uncovers our guilt? Only when someone turns to God, confessing his guilt sincerely and receiving forgiveness, will lasting joy come about.

(to be continued tomorrow)

Today's reading: Leviticus 6:1-30 · Psalms 52:1-9