As I read Mark 4:5-6 &16-17, I’m reminded of the modern-day Christian. We go to church, listen to a pod cast, televangelists etc. but never gain any roots. It’s more religion than spiritual. We’re in the moment of a good feeling and an inspiring word, ready to take on the world but never grow deeper in Christ.
When trials and tribulation comes, we fade away because there aren’t any depths to our beliefs. The enemy comes to see if our faith is centered around Christ or is it centered around an inspiring word. It’s time to grow deeper in the things of Christ. No longer settling for a prayer when times are rough, instead holding fast to God’s promises in season and out of season.
I was once in a place of being a “Fair Weather Christian”, I was happy right after church and enthused about tackling obstacles that once had me down. However, by mid-week I was burned out and felt that I needed another “good word”. What I really needed was an experience from the one who sent the word. I was discontent with the cycle of being hyped on Sunday and depressed and defeated by Thursday. The depression and defeat didn’t match the words I was hearing every week. I knew it was time to fully commit my life to the Lord, die to my desires and dig deeper to gain a relationship with Christ that will stand the test of time.
By cultivating our relationship with Christ, we can gain depth. We must seek his face and his will; as a deer pants for water, so does my soul pants for you. (Psalms 42:1) At first it may seem awkward but one experience in his presence will transform your life. In his presence, there is peace, joy, liberty and love. I read this in scripture but learned it from experience. It’s a place you will never want to leave. Try him…

5 And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth:
6 But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away.
16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;
17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution arise for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended. Mark 4:5-6 &16-17

Other Scripture reading:

Romans 12:1-2

Philippians 2:5

Mark 4:5-6

Mark 4:16-17