Devotion for Thursday, November 13, 2025

“And He was teaching them many things in parables, and was saying to them in His teaching, “Listen to this! Behold, the sower went out to sow; as he was sowing, some seed fell beside the road, and the birds came and ate it up” (Mark 4:2-4).

Jesus teaches us many things in a story form that transcends time, place, or tribe.  Humanity has common experiences which speak of the reality of this age.  Seeds in the ground to grow things and birds of distraction to misdirect so that growth does not happen.  How many times are good things sown in us and then flitter away by something that quickly comes and distracts us?  Be on the alert, Jesus tells us.

Lord, You alone know how many times You have planted something in me only to have it taken away quickly by something in this world.  The seed of Your word has been sown in me.  Teach me how to receive Your word and nurture it so that it grows according to Your will.  Keep my will under Yoursl so that I may grow in the goodness and mercy of Your grace.  Do not let Your word be void in me.

Lord Jesus, You know how easily I become distracted in this age.  Guide me in Your goodness and mercy so that I may see the things that come along flittering and trying to gain my attention.  They distract me from what You would give me.  Help me learn to understand things with clarity and live into the life which You intend for me.  Lead me so that I abide in You always. Amen.