COMMENTARY

Don Atkin

CARES, RICHES, AND PLEASURES OF LIFE

Now the ones (seeds) that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity. – Luke 8:14

Jesus explains, "The seed is the word of God." He goes on to describe the wayside as those who hear but do not believe, rocky places are those who receive the word with great joy, but have no root to keep them from temptation. And then He comes to our text.

This text so vividly describes so many church attenders. They have not yet ordered their lives according to kingdom virtues. While God is in their lives, and they speak the language, their lives are primarily driven by cares, riches and pleasures. And, they bring no fruit to maturity.

This is not simply an issue of "the haves" and "the have nots." Some of the greediest people I have met have been among the poorest. Some of the more affluent are very generous. Givers can be caught up with the cares, riches and pleasures of life.

Thorns are attitudes and priorities that keep us from seeking first God’s kingdom and righteousness - 24/7. Seeking first God’s kingdom is often inconvenient and seldom caters to the flesh.

Those who are focused upon the cares, riches and pleasures of this life need to taste the eternal riches and pleasures of His life - the life of Christ - flowing through them . There is nothing more stimulating and rewarding than to have heaven’s anointing flowing through us as we pursue our calling and purpose.

Each of us has a destiny designed in eternity and defined by purpose. We are carriers of the King and His kingdom, and are to function in very specific ways within the body of Christ. This requires responsible stewardship and accountability.

Merely attending church events and activities will not bring fruit to maturity. We are to live life together within the context of committed relationships in the family of God. Our lives are to be driven by God’s love and purpose, not our carnal desires.

Who’s in your driver’s seat?