The Parable of the Soils

Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus often spoke in parables to convey profound truths to His followers. One of the most well-known is “The Parable of the Soils” which is recorded in all three synoptic Gospels (Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-20; Luke 8:4-15).
The parable conveys how the seed of the Gospel message takes root in some lives and, in some, it does not. Ultimately, we know that the soil which represents the receptiveness to the Gospel message is under the care of our sovereign God. Apart from His planting and watering, no seed would ever come to fruition.

Matthew, Mark, and Luke all include explanations at the end their account of the parable. When giving some of the reasons that the seed of the Gospel did not flourish, the authors say that the “worry of the world” has a great deal to do with the unfruitful result.

As believers—those whose lives are bearing the fruit of the gospel—we too can go through seasons when we allow the worry of the world to rob us of joy, peace, and spiritual maturity. We often need to be reminded that our citizenship is in heaven (Phil 3:20), and we are but strangers and exiles on this earth (Heb 11:13).

Sure, we're to give ourselves to various responsibilities here in this life—all of which can be used to glorify God. However, let's be sure to prioritize the things that have eternal value. Only what's done for Christ will last.