Producing a Great Harvest

But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble (kalos) and good (agathos) heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop

Luke 8:15

We’ve spent the past five days discussing the sower, the seed, and the soil. Three of those days were dedicated to analysing the various types of soil. We’ve noted the many battles the soil of our heart must fight to benefit from God’s word. Today, we come to the final and good type of soil.

Three characteristics of a good heart are given in this passage: 

(1) hear the Word, 

(2) retain the Word, 

(3) persevere in the Word

When these three things are in place, there will be a harvestable crop as a result.

The word translated “retain” is Greek katechō, “hold fast, retain faithfully, keep in one’s possession, possess.” Those with a “good and noble heart” don’t let the Word go. They hold it fast, retain it in mind, and do not release it to lay hold on something of less value. They retain the Word; they hold it fast.

The word rendered “persevere” (NIV) or “with patience” (KJV), is Greek hypomonē, “patience, endurance, fortitude, steadfastness, perseverance.” A characteristic of the good soil, the good heart, is to retain the Word of God over the long haul. As A.T. Robertson observes, “Mushrooms spring up overnight, but they are usually poisonous. The best fruits require time, cultivation, and patience.”

To put all these together, the way to become fruitful with the word of God is first to hold fast to it as if our life depends on it and secondly to watch over it with patience. God is always faithful, at the “…proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).  

In conclusion, there are three major enemies that we must fight hard if we must profit with the word of God. First, we must wage war against Satan who tries to stop the word of God from ever penetrating our hearts. Next, we must overcome the trials and temptations that will come as a result of the word. Finally, we must fight to stay focused on God’s word, not allowing the cares of this life (worry, wealth or pleasure) to distract us. May God strengthen us in our journey to fruitfulness in Jesus name. 

PRAYER

Lord, grant us receptive hearts that hold fast to Your word. Give us the strength to retain it faithfully and the perseverance to endure through trials. May we be vigilant against the enemies that would distract us from Your message. We pray for the patience to cultivate the seeds You sow in our hearts, knowing that with steadfastness, we will reap a bountiful harvest in Your name. Amen.