So here we go with the different soils. Obviously, the first one is the rough area along the road. Although, the NLT version calls it a footpath. Let’s remember that it’s a farmer who is planting the seed in his field. We learn from the story that the field is not exactly smooth in all parts of it. Apparently, through the field are footpaths for caring for the produce as it grows and is finally harvested.

Seeds that fall beside the road, or footpath, were the ones the birds came and ate up because there was no depth of soil to protect the seed. (Mark 4) Luke 8 adds that it was stepped on. Jesus later explains that it’s the enemy of God that removes the seed. As Matthew reports, the message was heard but not understood, so it didn’t take much for the devil to snatch it away.

What does this mean for us? If we’re listening to a sermon or Bible lesson, doesn’t that mean we want to catch what is being taught? Well, maybe.

It could be a simple rejection of a Biblical teaching. Like when we say, “Oh, that’s nuts.” Or, “Not happening in my life. I’m not making that change.” Or, “That sounds good, but not for me.”

The next time I start to say those words, I plan to take a second look before the enemy of Jesus snatches the lesson away. Maybe what was said is for me. Maybe I need to research my heart and mind and see why I don’t want to change. Maybe the Lord is trying to plant a seed in me for an adjustment that needs to be made. And when I do, I know there will be an increase in growth. Far more than I thought possible.