A great tool for self analysis
Everyone would agree that an honorable goal in life is to leave a legacy of impacting others.
But, seasons of life wreak havoc on this goal.
In the parable of the seeds (Matthew 13), Jesus describes a farmer that sprinkles seed, representing the Word of God. The seed falls on 4 types of soil, each painting the picture of one’s life and the impact on others.
The parable is a great tool for self analysis.
In fact, as I consider my life, I see how I have moved between each of the different types of soil.
Soil one – Seed sprinkled on a path, hard and packed soil. No growth. The result is a hard heart, tough on yourself, tough on others. No impact on others. Cynicism, negativity, and blaming others rule the day.
Soil two – Seed sprinkled on rocky, shallow soil. Quick, short personal growth, but there is no deep root system. The growth starts promising, but growth is stunted when trouble or persecution come, and, trouble and persecution always come in life. The result is that one quickly leaves their faith. They had no root system.
Soil three – Seed sprinkled on soil that is overcome by thorns. The thorns choke the once growing, flourishing plant. The thorns are the worries of the world and the deceitfulness of wealth. Thorns strike quickly, without notice, penetrating the skin. When you have a thorn, all of your focus is on the thorn. You can’t ignore it. The result is your life is spent thinking about yourself. Worries and love of money create a life of self focus with no impact on others.
Soil four – The final seed is sprinkled on good soil. This seed grows, produces fruit, blesses other people. This life focuses on others. This life leaves a legacy impacting other people. Deep down, this is the life, the legacy, that we all desire. And, as one impact others one finds fulfillment.
Most move through each of the different soils as they go through life. Different seasons can make a different person.
Regardless of your season, we have perpetual hope because of grace.
God gives grace for those seasons where you missed it. Give yourself grace, too. And, with this grace, we always have hope for the future. Through Christ, the future can always be changed. Start now.
Leave a legacy of impact others. Not necessarily quantity, but quality. Impacting one can change generations.
Which season are you in right now?
Impact others. Live generously.