What Jesus Did! 'The Cares of the Crowded Heart' — Mark 4:18-19

Monday, March 4, 2024

[Continuing the explanation of his parable, Jesus said,] "The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God's word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced."
— Mark 4:18-19 NLT

Key Thought

I hate thorns. Spending part of my time growing up in West Texas, I had to deal with all sorts of spiny cactus-like plants. Thorns seem to grow better in semi-arid regions than most other plants ... but then they grow better than most other plants in wet regions, too! Having to deal with thorns is just a reminder that our hearts can easily be distracted from what is important by what is pervasive! We need to beware because the stuff we own may come to own us and choke out our hearts' openness to God.

Today's Prayer

Father, please help me keep my priorities correct as I battle with the cares of this life, the lure of money, and the desire to have nice things. Bless me as I seek you and your Kingdom first, and as I trust that you will supply what is most needed in my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Matthew 6:31-34
  • 1 Timothy 6:6-10
  • Psalm 37:4

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Illustration

Illustration of Mark 4:18-19 NLT — "The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God's word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced.

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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