“For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated, receives blessing from God; but if it bears thorns and briers, it is rejected and near to being cursed, whose end is to be burned” (Hebrews 6:7-8).
The human heart was most memorably compared to the earth’s soil in Jesus’ classic parable of the sower (Matthew 13:1-9). Using universal agricultural facts, Jesus taught important spiritual truths about good and wicked hearts. A similar illustration and application are found in the book of Hebrews.
Some Christians diligently draw close to God and remain spiritually fruitful. Others fall from Christ and are spiritually bankrupt and blind.
Why?
The difference is not because of any flaw in the seed or the farmer. Neither is a lack of rain is to blame; it comes often and soaks in (v. 7). Yet, in some portions of the same field there is a useful, blessed harvest, and in other places there are worthless thorns and briers.
Why?
Good spiritual soil is cultivated (v. 7); it is no accident. It necessitates diligence (v. 11). Sluggishness/laziness (v. 12) must be abhorred and avoided. Perseverance is essential (v. 12).
Just as a field which produces an abundant harvest is the result of purposeful and persistent labor by the farmer, you must watch over your heart with all diligence (Proverbs 4:24) if you are going to inherit the promises and blessings of spiritual bounty.
There are no shortcuts.
