June 12

Rootless Grace

Some fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly because the soil was shallow. — Matt 13:5 BSB

In the parable, there is a thin layer of soil over rock. The seed sinks in just a little, and the warmth radiating from the rock causes it to sprout quickly. This represents people whose faith is primarily emotional. At first, they seem full of promise. They respond immediately to appeals, and their feelings rise to the surface. Such people often appear deeply affected by sorrow, and they grieve intensely, but their grief passes quickly. In the same way, they seem to be deeply moved by religious experiences, beginning their Christian life with a fervor that puts older believers to shame. They attend every meeting, weep during prayers, and talk openly about Christ. Their zeal is remarkable: “It sprang up quickly, because it had no depth of soil.”

But this rapid growth lacks deep roots, and it can’t withstand the heat of trials. The sun soon scorches the young plants, and they wither. In the spiritual realm, the same thing happens. Emotional faith often lacks depth and permanence. It bursts into exuberant life but may not survive the challenges of temptation, hardship, or sorrow. Too often, the enthusiasm fades, and when difficulties arise, the rootless faith withers and dies.

In contrast, the most enduring spiritual life usually grows slowly and steadily. It takes root in deep, fertile soil, unaffected by changes in circumstances, weathering both heat and cold, rain and drought.

If you find that your spiritual life is shallow, with hard rock beneath the surface, you should seek to break up that rock through repentance and prayer, allowing the plants of righteousness to grow strong and deep.