Heart Conditions: Thorny Hearts

Now he who received Seed among the thorns is he who hears the Word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the Word, and he becomes unfruitful.

Matthew 13:22 (NKJV)

The best of them is like a brier;
The most upright is sharper than a thorn hedge...
Do not trust in a friend;
Do not put your confidence in a companion.

Micah 7:4-5 (NKJV)

He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.

Matthew 10:37 (NKJV)

  • Adam loved Eve more than God's Commandment.

  • Samson loved Delilah more than God’s gift.

  • Eli loved his sons more than God’s priesthood.

  • Martha loved work more than time with God’s Son.

  • King Herod loved pleasure more than honor.

  • Judas loved silver more than his Savior.

  • Pilate loved a mob’s rant more than justice.

  • Sapphira loved her husband more than truth.

A thorny heart is torn and over-crowded– with riches and/or the cares of this world. 

So let’s study Jesus in this regard: His priorities were and are… PERFECT!

'Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people' (John 2:24). 'I do not receive honor from men' (John 5:41).

So how can Christians maintain healthy hearts in a world just as strange as Babylon? Do what Daniel did. Always put God first. Meet Him in prayer at the beginning, the middle, and the end of every day.

Loving God first protects your heart from thorns. He’s the watchful, guarding Tenderizer. Because other forms of ungodly love… will sting or cut you!

But what if your heart is already stuck? Repent, 'Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you' (1 Peter 5:7).

Give God your busyness, worries, and wealth. After that, give Him your family, too. Yes, the ones you're tempted to love too much, as well as the ones you're tempted to hate.

Therein, is a thorny heart is cleared and soothed.

'I believe firmly that the moment our hearts are emptied of pride and selfishness and ambition and everything that is contrary to God's Law, the Holy Spirit will fill every corner of our hearts. But if we are full of pride and conceit and ambition and the world, there is no room for the Spirit of God. We must be emptied before we can be filled' (D.L. Moody).

Heart Conditions: Thorny Hearts (Part 3)

NOTE: This is a 2023 update of a 2013 Carey Lewis Devotion. You may see notes to 'Actors, Models & Talent for Christ.' If you think you're not in show business, think again. Shakespeare said, 'All the world's a stage and all its men and women merely players. Mostly true. But you're not merely players. You are messengers and ambassadors for the King of kings.

Carey Arban