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The springtime is seed time. Some seeds have already been planted for this year. Throughout the year those seeds will need to be watered for the plants to develop. Further nurturing will need to be done before harvest in the Fall. In the Bible the seed is the Word of God (Luke 8:11). Let us make some observations about the Word of God and planting seeds.
First, seeds must be planted in the right soil. An important lesson can be learned about planting seeds. If the soil is not right, even the best seed won’t germinate correctly. Work must be done to produce desired results. Spiritually, we must have our hearts willing and ready to receive the Word. Then, we must receive the Word and obey it. Those Peter preached to “gladly received the word and were baptized” (Acts 2:41). The Word is to be implanted within us (James. 1:21).
Second, the seed must be watered and nurtured. Sometimes seeds are planted, but nothing more happens. We often give up and wonder if it was worth the effort. Paul explains how the process is to work. He stated, “I planted, Apollos watered, and God gave the increase (1 Cor. 3:6).
Third, the seed must be the right seed. So much seed is sown today with the label “God’s seed.” The seed, however, is the Word of God (Luke 8:11). We have all of God’s word we need (2 Pet. 1:3). We are not to alter, change, or modify it (Gal. 1:6-10; Rev. 22:18,19). This seed is described as incorruptible (1 Pet. 1:23). When God’s pure seed is sown in the right soil, only good results will come.
Our hearts should always be ready to receive the Word of God. Then we should plant the seed to help others become Christians. Faith is produced by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17). Faith does not come from emotions or feelings, but in obedience and in compliance with the Word and the Will of God. We should plant the seed. Others may water; but it is God who provides the increase.
Bill Brandstatter
Marion church of Christ
Marion, IL