Good morning. Last week, we began our reading in Matthew chapter 13, which began with a parable. As we continue with the parable of the sower, we will read what Jesus reveals to his disciples. Are your eyes and ears open and ready? Enjoy today’s devotion.

BIBLE VERSE – Matthew 13:18-23 NLT
“¹⁸ “Now listen to the explanation of the parable about the farmer planting seeds: ¹⁹The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message about the Kingdom and don’t understand it. Then the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their hearts. ²⁰The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. ²¹ But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word. ²²The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced. ²³ The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God’s word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!””

REFLECTION
The difference between the four results wasn’t the seed, it was the soil that the seeds landed on. The seeds which represent the gospel message remained the same (unchanged), the difference was with the people who heard the message.

Remember, not all who heard – received. Out of the four seeds, only one seed thrived in the soil. Basically, the Pharisees heard the message, but they rejected the message – their soil was not right/prepared to receive the message. Sadly, many people have or will hear the message today or in their lifetime and will reject the message too.

However, just as Jesus did not stop sharing the word of God, let’s not stop either. In time, the word will fall on good soil and only God knows what that seed will produce. So be faithful – faithful in prayer and in sharing the gospel message. 

PRAYER
Father God, thank you for your gracious love. Thank you for sending your son Jesus. Thank you for the Holy Spirit that dwells in all those who believe and receive you as Lord. Lord, thank you for opening our eyes and giving us ears to hear. Lord, continue to reveal yourself and your word to us. Lord, equip and teach us to follow after you. Lord, we want to be good soil, make us rich in nutrients so that your word will take root and flourish in and through us. Lord, when the enemy comes unexpectedly, alert us to the activity and remind us to pray. Lord, equip us to prepare for the attack, but give us peace in the battle and remove all anxiety because you have all things under control. Lord, today, guard our hearts and minds, be our rock and fortress as we move forward and lean in to you.

Lord, we pray for our family members, friends, loved ones, and those who know you and do not know you. Lord, we pray for their relationship with you to grow and flourish. Lord, we pray that their soil is prepared and cultivated to continue to grow in your word and in truth. Lord, continue to keep us aligned to your word and be a living example to you. Lord, help us to restore, rebuild, and refocus our lives on you. Help us to establish proper boundaries so that we remain committed and on mission.

Heal the brokenhearted. Continue to heal families that have fallen out. Lord, heal the sick and afflicted. Comfort the hearts of those who lost loved ones this weekend and help them as they grieve and make funeral arrangements.

In Jesus name, amen.

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UPDATES

We still have room for you. The retreat will be a in-person with limited virtual participation. Tickets are $45.00 ( includes a light breakfast and lunch) and must be purchased prior to the event. Tickets will not be sold at the door.

Tickets can be purchased online through our Online Ticket Account click below:

http://mewministries.betterworld.org/events/2025-women-s-retreat

Retreat themed t-shirts are on sale. There are two styles and two colors.

• You can purchase your t-shirt by using the following vendor link: https://www.injesusnamecreations.com/product-page/whitecircleshesarmeddangeroust-shirt

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PRAYER REQUEST
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Bible Reference: http://biblegateway.com

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