Boxed In by Distractions

Bible In A Year | Read: Luke 8

14 The seed that fell among 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. 15 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.  Luke 8:14-15

Overview of Chapter

Jesus tells some stories that illustrate ways to handle God’s Word. One emphasizes that we need to listen to it and do what it says. The next tells us we should be making it known to others. There are a few incidents where Jesus performs miracles with interesting twists. In one case, the fishermen are afraid of the water and the teacher is not. In the next, the man who would be considered crazy accepts him and the sane people don’t. In the last, Jesus is delayed in his response, so it appears all is lost. It actually opens the door for an even greater miracle.

It’s hard to imagine there were people who rejected Jesus when faced with all these miracles! Even his own family rejected Him. Jesus’ response says obeying the Word of God matters more than family. What is standing between you and obeying God?

Thoughts on the verses

We live in a culture that is constantly competing for our attention whether it’s an annoying pop-up ad, a billboard or flashing road sign, or even a giant inflatable purple gorilla at a local car lot. We are constantly being sent messages clamouring for our affection. They promise a better life, but they leave us empty and wanting. If we fall for these false messages, those distractions can keep us boxed in from a fruitful and fulfilling life. 

God’s Word (the Bible) is a remedy for distractions that cross our path. God’s Word empowers us to measure the merits of the messages we are bombarded with and keeps us from unproductive paths. By reading and meditating on the Scriptures daily, our hearts and minds are soaking in the nutrient-rich truth that feeds our souls, producing a good and fruitful life.

God is the originator, designer, and creator of life and love. We have free and open access to His thoughts and feelings throughout the Bible. If we are not regularly giving our attention to God’s messages, chances are high that we are being boxed in by a competing message. It’s causing us to miss out on the life God designed us to experience.

Action Steps

Bible: What is God showing me?  What am I going to do about it? 

Bless: Serve one person through word, action, or gift today.