Developing Deep Roots: The Key to Spiritual Stability

“Some fell on rock; and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it lacked moisture.” Luke 8:6

“But the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away.” Luke 8:13

A tree requires certain nutrients to survive and flourish. The roots provide the opportunity for the tree to receive this nourishment and have stability. When it rains, the roots soak up the water giving the tree strength and productivity.

If a tree has no root, how successful will it be?

When the storms come, andthe sun beams down on the tree that has no roots, how effective will it be in standing and producing?

In our parable, Jesus says, the plant that sprung up with no root, “…lacks moisture.” Luke 8:6 “…it has no depth.” Matthew 13:5

This same principle is true concerning the heart represented by the stony soil.

Jesus says,these individualsreceive the Word with joy and believe for a while, but in the time of temptation they fall away.

Jesus speaks of a specific temptation in Matthew’s account to this parable. The word is received with joy, “but endures only for a little while. (Why?) For when tribulation comes or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.” Mattthew 13:20-21

Tribulation and persecution came because of the Word.

It is easy to be a Christian when there is no resistance. It is a joy to receive the Word when no one is opposing it. But when persecution and tribulation come because of the Word and the temptation to confess or deny the truth is presented to us, we find out how deep our roots run. The deeper the soil the more grounded the roots are. The more grounded the roots are the more moisture they will take in. When these two things are true, we will be able to stand, when they are not, we will wither and fall.                      

It’s not always easy, there will be times when we must plow through that rocky layer of fear, selfishness, and pride. However, we have a choice. Just as soil, the heart must be cared for and be prepared to receive the word so that it may take root, be strong and produce.