Page 4 - Microsoft Word - The Parable of the Sower.docx

It is only the seed fortunate enough to fall on the good soil that enjoys a
relationship between the soil, moisture, and nutrients guaranteeing a rich
and bountiful harvest. To-day’s farmer prepares his land carefully

understanding the relationship between seed and environment. He
ensures all his seed is sown under optimum conditions in good soil at the

right depth.

The preparation and provision of good soil is a prerequisite for church

and spiritual growth. We need to spend much time and energy preparing
the soil but exactly how do we accomplish that?

Firstly we need to prepare our hearts. We need to ask God to open our
hearts and give us understanding. Here at St Andrews we provide you

the opportunity at the start of the worship service to do just that. You
will recall that immediately after the welcome and introductory remarks

Wayne provided you with a minute or two to reflect on your relationship
with God and to open your hearts, minds, ears and eyes to His message.

Slide 4

Hear Peters words in 1 Peter:1:13-16 “13-16 So roll up your sleeves,

put your mind in gear, be totally ready to receive the gift that’s
coming when Jesus arrives. Don’t lazily slip back into those old

grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn’t know
any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be

pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and
blazing with holiness. God said, “I am holy; you be holy.”

If you have not been growing spiritually perhaps it is because you have
not ploughed the soil of your heart to allow God’s seed to flourish.