What practical steps can we take to avoid spiritual "briers and thorns"? Setting the Scene—Hebrews 6:7-8 “For land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is tended receives the blessing of God. But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and its curse is imminent; in the end it will be burned.” (Hebrews 6:7-8) What Are Spiritual Briers and Thorns? • Habits, attitudes, and influences that choke out obedience and fruitfulness • Anything that dulls hunger for God—bitterness, secret sin, misplaced priorities (Matthew 13:22) • Relational conflicts left unresolved (Ephesians 4:31-32) • Patterns that look harmless but keep the heart hard, like unattended weeds in a garden (Proverbs 24:30-31) Preparing the Soil of the Heart • Daily, unhurried time in Scripture—“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) • Honest self-examination in the Spirit’s light (Psalm 139:23-24) • Quick confession when conviction comes—keeping short accounts with God (1 John 1:9) • Welcoming wise, loving correction from mature believers (Proverbs 27:6) Consistent Cultivation Practices • Memorize and meditate on passages that target your known weak spots (Psalm 119:11) • Replace idle moments with intentional praise or intercession (Colossians 4:2) • Practice regular fasting to loosen the soil of stubborn desires (Isaiah 58:6) • Serve others tangibly; fruit grows where love is exercised (Galatians 5:13) Guarding Against New Infestations • Set clear boundaries on entertainment and media intake (Philippians 4:8) • Choose companions who spur you toward holiness (1 Corinthians 15:33) • Keep Sabbath rhythms—rested soil resists weeds better than exhausted soil (Exodus 20:8-10) • Address conflict swiftly; resentment sprouts thorns (Hebrews 12:15) Living Fruitfully Every Season • Abide in Christ daily; fruit is the natural by-product of connection to the Vine (John 15:5) • Walk by the Spirit so the works of the flesh—our modern “thorns”—are crowded out (Galatians 5:19-23) • Stay expectant: God can turn any neglected field into a vibrant orchard when surrendered to Him (Isaiah 35:1-2) Intentional, routine cultivation keeps the heart soft, receptive, and fruitful—free of the briers and thorns that otherwise waste the ground. |
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