June 13

What of the Root

But when the sun rose, the seedlings were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. — Matt 13:6 BSB

A root is crucial for a plant or tree. You could take a green branch from a living tree and plant it in the ground, and for a little while, it might appear to live; but soon, under the heat of the sun, it will wither. It has no root. The root, while not beautiful or visible, is essential to the life of the tree. In the same way, there is a hidden part in every Christian’s life. It may not seem to bless the world in any direct way, but it is vital. This hidden life consists of faith, love, and communion with God through His Word and prayer. No one praises a Christian's private, inner life with God because it is unseen, but it is the root of the outward life that people do see and admire, and whose fruits provide nourishment to others.

Jesus says the problem with shallow-soil people is that they have no root in themselves. This means there is no strong, inner life of faith and love for Christ. Where there is such a root, no persecution or outward circumstances can destroy the life. It is sustained from within, nourished by heavenly food, and trials only strengthen its purpose.

But it’s different with superficial religion. It has no inner life of its own and is kept alive only by external excitement—such as revival meetings, a favorite preacher, or the influence of friends. It depends on outer circumstances to stir the emotions temporarily. But because it has no root, it cannot endure through trials.