3 Steps to Get Close to the Savior

Reflections on Luke 8:11-15 and 8:21

The parable of the sower, as recounted in Luke 8:11-15, offers a profound lesson on the significance of God’s Word in our lives. Jesus explains, “The seed is the Word of God.” This simple yet powerful assertion sets the stage for understanding how the Word, like a seed, has the potential to bring forth life and growth when it falls on good soil.

• Knowing Who You Are: The Seed and the Soil

In the parable, Jesus describes various types of soil that represent the hearts of those who hear God’s Word. Some seed falls on the path, where it is trampled and eaten by birds. Other seed falls on rocky ground, where it withers due to lack of moisture. Still, other seed falls among thorns, which choke it as it grows. But the seed that falls on good soil—those with noble and good hearts who hear the Word, retain it, and persevere—produces a bountiful crop. What type of soil are you?

This crop symbolizes believers who not only hear God’s Word but also retain it, allowing it to take root and flourish in their lives. It underscores the importance of not simply hearing the Word but memorizing and holding it close, so it can guide our thoughts, actions, and decisions.

•  Learning of Him: Memorizing the Word

Memorizing scripture is more than an intellectual exercise; it is an act of devotion. By committing God’s Word to memory, we ensure that it is ever-present in our minds, ready to be recalled in times of need, temptation, or decision-making. It becomes a constant source of wisdom, comfort, and direction.

When we memorize scripture, we are like the good soil, preparing our hearts to receive and retain the seed of God’s Word. This retention allows us to persevere in our faith, bearing fruit that is evident in our actions, attitudes, and relationships. As we meditate on and internalize the Word, it transforms us from the inside out, molding us into the image of Christ.

• Walking With Him: Obeying the Word

Memorizing God’s Word is only half the journey; the other half is living it out. In Luke 8:21, when Jesus was told that his mother and brothers were outside wanting to see Him, He replied, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s Word and put it into practice.” This powerful statement emphasizes that true kinship with Jesus is defined by obedience to God’s Word.

To love God’s Word is to cherish it enough to live by it. It means allowing scripture to influence our choices, behavior, and interactions with others. When we obey the Word, we demonstrate our love for God and our desire to be close to Him. Our lives become a testament to the transformative power of scripture, inspiring others to seek and follow Christ.

Conclusion

The parable of the sower and Jesus’ words in Luke 8:21 challenge us to examine our relationship with God’s Word. Are we like the good soil, ready to receive, memorize, and obey the seed of scripture? Do we prioritize the Word in our daily lives, allowing it to guide and shape us?

If we truly love God’s Word and retain it in our hearts, we will find ourselves drawing nearer to Jesus. As we memorize and live out scripture, we align ourselves with God’s will and experience the fullness of life that comes from being His disciples. Let us commit to not only hearing the Word but also retaining and obeying it, so we may produce a crop of believers who likewise cherish and follow God’s Word.