For a description of the (Y2) reading plan, see the “About” page.
Mark 4
Note that three of the four places the farmer’s seed fell received it. Yet only one of the three endured; only one was fruitful. This brings to mind some of Jesus’ other words. “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit” (John 15:1-2a). And on more than one occasion He said, “the one who stands firm to the end will be saved” (Mark 13:13). This tells me that, in a nation where there is a church on practically every street corner and many who claim the title, “Christian”, there are only a few who actually belong to Christ. And, referring again to Jesus’ words, “By their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matt. 7:16).
We need to be careful. And we need to be diligent. Living for God, abiding in Christ, being fruitful all require an intentional effort. If we do not stay tapped into our strong root system, we will wither at the first sign of difficulty. And if we do not keep our guard up, staying armed with God’s truth, we will get choked out by the worries and cares of this world. This is why Paul spoke so much about running a race. Keeping our mind on the finish line will help us push through when the going gets tough.
1 Sam. 21-22
What were the unintended consequences of David getting help from Ahimelech the priest? In the book, “Good to Great”, Jim Collins talks about what he coined “level 5 leadership”. He said that one of the primary distinctions in these great leaders is in how they respond to success and failure. When things go well, a level 5 leader points to those around him as the reason why. When things go wrong, however, such leaders point to themselves. I noticed this in David. When Abiathar told David what Doeg the Edomite had done, David said, “That day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, I knew he would be sure to tell Saul. I am responsible for the death of your whole family.” (1 Sam. 22:22).
I just mentioned that Jesus said we would know people’s hearts by their fruits. So I can’t help but notice the fruits of Saul, Doeg, and David in this story. Saul did what I see so many doing today. He projected. He accused others of the things he himself was guilty of, though they were completely innocent of his charges. If that isn’t fruit from a heart ruled by evil, I don’t know what is. And then there was Doeg. He was a classic ‘yes man’. Doeg was willing to do anything to gain favor with his authorities and get ahead. Clearly, Doeg had no fear of God. What a contrast David was to these two men! David’s concern was not for self, but for God and those in his care. He was good, even to his enemies.
I think it is important to notice these differences. Not only will it help me guard against the evil of the flesh, but it will also teach me to discern the spirit of others. I have a friend who says that we need to become fruit inspectors. So true! When I recognize these kinds of behaviors in others, especially in those who claim the name of Christ, I need to be careful not to yoke myself with them or let them sway me away from God.
Prov. 11
Pick one proverb that speaks to you. Memorize it and share it with someone today. This group of Proverbs speaks a lot about wealth, righteousness, and generosity. I say that wealth is an adulterous woman. It lures many into its trap of destruction. Don’t get me wrong – there is nothing wrong with being blessed by God. As they say, though, money makes a great servant but a horrible master. It is not something we should seek or put our trust in. “Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.” (Pr. 11:4). And, “Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.” (Pr. 1:28).
So instead, we should seek righteousness. And we should put our trust in God, who provides both righteousness and wealth. And we should be generous with what God provides. “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” (Pr. 11:25). God does not bless us with wealth or anything else merely for our own benefit. God’s blessings are His provision for us to go about doing His business for others. When we are faithful and generous in passing along what He gives then, “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you – and even more. Whoever has will be given more;” (Mark 4:24b-25a).