Wednesday, September 13, 2017
Matthew 13:20-21 But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.
THE TRUTH ABOUT FAITH ... AND PERSEVERING IN IT
Why does the Light go out in some people? Why do some people fall away from faith in Christ?
In the Parable of the Sower and the Seed (the farmer planting his field), Jesus explained why some hear His Word, but do not believe or only believe in Him for a time. The Eternal Son of God, like only He can, explains it in this way (Matthew 13:20-21):
There are times when people hear the Good News of what Jesus has done for them, and gladly receive it and the light begins to shine. But as soon as trouble arises or people make fun of their faith, they decide to turn away. Persecution is difficult, especially when we try to overcome it ourselves, without seeking the help and strength of our LORD! And we should expect persecution to come our way as Christians, because the Word of the Lord tells us it will (cf. John 15:20, 2 Timothy 3:12).
Does the LORD want us to fall away? Nope. The Word of God tells us that the Lord (2 Peter 3:9): " ... is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance."
Is it God's fault that some are turned away by persecution? It is not. Neither is it the only reason the Light goes out in some people.
Today, let us thank God for the freedoms we enjoy in this country. May God preserve our freedoms and strengthen us by His Word that we may endure persecution when it comes, and not for a moment forsake Him for fear of or because of persecution.
