Jesus did everything intentionally. He never made a mistake or left room for error. His choice of words is no exception. Jesus’ disciples asked Him a pointed question in Matthew 13:10: “Why do you speak to them in parables?”
He chose to speak in parables because He knew His hearers hearts.
Some listener’s hearts were fertile soil. Those hearts were soft and pliable, open to hearing from Him and ready to be shaped by the Holy Spirit. Those people made time with God a priority and looked to improve their relationship with their Heavenly Father. Of course, Jesus wanted to encourage those listeners and bless them with His words.
Conversely, He knew others were not in the same place at that time. Scorn or malice, sorrow or disbelief had hardened their hearts. Jesus knew they were not ready for His words or teaching. Rather than give them words that, when filtered through their present mindset, would possibly further hinder any faith-growth, Jesus spoke indirectly though parables.
Jesus was not writing them off, and did not disregard them. No, it was for their protection. He knew their hearts were hurting. They could not take and understand Jesus’s words, so Jesus masked His words. Jesus knew the Holy Spirit would grant them understanding when they were ready to receive it. Until then, their hearts were in a place of futility.
Are you too, convicted when reading Jesus’ motive? He did this out of love. He knows each of us and wants only the very best for us.
We each need to answer the personal question: Where is my heart today? Is it fertile or futile?
If we are residing in a moment of futility, we need to know we don’t have to stay there. Jesus did not shun those who could not currently comprehend His parable. He shielded them from straying further.
Rest assured, He was waiting with open arms for them to return to Him.
Maybe your heart is in a great state of fresh, fertile soil today. If so, yay! I am so glad you are there.
But if you take stock and find yourself in a time of futility, know that you are not doomed. No matter what the enemy might whisper, don’t let his words stick. Instead, cling to the promise found in 2 Peter 3:9, “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wishing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance.” (Emphasis added.)
God is waiting for you with arms wide open. Jesus wants to embrace you with His nail-scarred hands. The Holy Spirit can’t wait to speak to your heart and reveal understanding to you.
The first step is to tell Him where you discovered yourself: in a temporary state of futility. Ask Him to forgive the sins that hardened your heart and broke your life. God is close to the broken-hearted. He will comfort you, forgive you, and embrace you.
As you commune with Him, that futile heart will soften into fertile soil. Your mind will become clear and your soul will sing. And just like the plants referenced in Matthew 13, you too, will harvest a crop of abundant faith and understanding.
Will you join me in asking God for just that?
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, You know where I am. Lord, I want to be that fertile soil. I want my faith to grow and reap a harvest. I can’t do it alone. Please forgive my sins. I list them one by one and ask for Your forgiveness. I thank You for Your love and for Jesus, for paying for my sin. Please Lord, take this futility and grow a fertile heart for You. In Jesus’ name, amen.