Called out or Choked out

10-29-08

SCRIPTURE
"Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop - thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown." (Mark 4:18-20)

OBSERVATION
In our prosperous society or shall I say prosperous "minded" society, we are up against the epidemic of worldliness and materialistic gain. The epidemic is a self-centered heart issue pressed by commercialism and marketing of goods. We are all bombarded with the inner struggles of wanting more and the outer pressures of keeping up with the pace of worldliness.

Jesus addresses this epidemic and the outcome of our fruitfulness based on how His Word is received and applied.

APPLICATION
I feel caught between the tensions of being choked out and called out.

What can choke me out?

Worries of this life; There's so much to worry about or is there? I don't want to allow worry to choke out who I'm called to be and what I'm called to do. I'm worrying too much in certain areas of my life.

Deceitfulness of wealth; I don't think I'm deceived in thinking that money is the focus of my heart and life. I do deal with wanting to be richer, to make more money so I can____...? So I can what? I need to be content and wise as a steward of the BLESSINGS He has provided. I am blessed!

Desires for other things; Ouch...here it is! I've got to be sure that I can control the appetite of my desires for things. Oh yes...there's an appetite -a craving to acquire more - it's the bigger, better, newer, latest, greatest syndrome. HELP ME JESUS!

The Spirit of the Lord is saying to me; "Chris, I have called you to Myself - setting you apart to be different, to think and live differently, to want and desire differently. I see your struggle and hear your hearts cry to be like Me. You know I am Your provider - your Blesser! I am your Rewarder so trust Me and keep longing to be like Me. Don't cave in to your earthly cravings - be watchful, serious and prayerful about your spending. I will give you strength to be a wise steward and then watch. Watch Me bless you. Stay near to Me and I will commune with you - satisfying your longings and exceeding your expectations."

PRAYER
All I can say is WOW God... Thanks for speaking to me this morning. May I heed Your warnings and abide in Your promises. I love You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength!