Upon studying the Parable of the Sower for so many days, the first thing that caught my attention was the different types of soils. If you are like me, you will start asking yourself which of these soils am I? Or maybe the following:

• Am I letting the daily distractions steal my time with the Lord? (Path)
• Do I open my agenda book more than my Bible? (Rocky soil)
• Am I more focused on the ministry than on the God of the ministry? (Thorns)
• What makes good soil? Am I truly good soil?

I have been confronted with these questions for the past few weeks.  I confess that for a long time I believed I was not good soil and never could be. The truth is that we become good soil when we develop habits and disciplines, like daily prayer and time in the Word, that not only shape our desires and deepen our relationship with God but also shape the way we love others.  

You see, in nature, good, nutrient-rich soil is not the only thing that causes seeds to grow well. The seed also needs water and light. This is not different for our spiritual life. When we have the humility to be open to the Holy Spirit’s work in us, we allow the seed of His Word to be planted in our hearts. Then, with conviction, we study His word. His living water (John 4:14) refreshes the soil of our hearts, allowing the seed to take root.  When we become persistent in prayer (Colossians 4:2), the seed of the Word in our hearts receives His light (John 8:12) and starts to grow. Soon enough if we continue pressing into His presence, receiving His living water daily, and following his light as we grow, we see our Father’s glory and we bear much fruit (John 15:5-8). 

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other. – John 15:16-17

For the longest time, I was the path, letting any distractions steal His word over my life. When I encountered trials, I quickly fell away. The Holy Spirit continued to work on me and I became more like rocky soil. And I will love to tell you that I did not have a thorn phase, but I did. At some point in my journey, I became more focused on the ministry than on the God of the ministry. But God and His unfailing love for me keep me pressing into His word and prayer.  In God’s time, I found myself on that altar, with a microphone in my hand, living the truth of His word over my life and loving others in my place of greatest discomfort. 

As you can see, it took years to bear the fruit that will last. I am convinced that the Word, I declared over those lives will also bear fruit. In the words of Paul in Philippians 3: 12, not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I will continue to press on seeking His water and light. And what about you? 

It is my prayer that the Holy Spirit helps the Word sink deep into your heart. So, you can find comfort in Him whether you feel like the path, rocky soil, or thorn. Be convinced that you were created to be good soil and you are just finding the rhythms of His grace in your life. 

Please no matter where you are, place your right hand on your heart and read these with me:

I am good soil and His word “will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” (Jeremiah 17:8).