Worries = no crop, Perseverance = good crop

Ezra 2, 3
Luke 8

SOAP - Worries = no crop, Perseverance = good crop

Scripture
Luke 8:14-15 "The seed that fell among the thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop."

Observation
Well, Jesus pretty much explained this for us. We may do all the "right" things. We may study our Bible, we may go to church, we may pray. But it never filters into the rest of our life. The cares of this world prevent us from becoming the people we could be. Some people do take God with them into their whole lives. It's not easy. But they keep trying and through their perseverance they become the people God wants them to be.

Application
Even the good things of this world can serve as a distraction and a detriment to our relationship with God. I know that happens to me some. And riches are always a temptation. It's scary to consider a life with far less money available. But this scripture really makes me think of the worries of this world. I'm a big worrier. I kinda think I've gotten better, but its really still pretty disruptive. I know there have been many times in life when fear and worry have kept me from doing something that God wanted me to do. I don't want to miss out on being who God wants me to be because I am worried and failing to trust God. I want to trust God, to have faith, and when he calls me, I want to persevere and be the person God wants me to be.

Prayer
Dear Lord. Please help me take my focus off of me, and put it on you. Lord the fear and anger in my heart does not serve you. Please take these thoughts and feelings from me and place in me a spirit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self control. Thank you Lord. Amen.