ABOVE ONLY DEVOTIONAL/BIBLE STUDY – Church of God Mission International – By ARCHBISHOP M. E. BENSON IDAHOSA DATE: WEDNESDAY SEP. 18| Topic:  How to get rid of thorns in your heart

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ABOVE ONLY DEVOTIONAL/BIBLE STUDY

DATE: WEDNESDAY SEP. 18

TOPIC:How to get rid of thorns in your heart

TEXT: Matthew 13:3,7, 18, 22

KEY VERSE: He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

INTRODUCTION:
In Matthew 13:22, Jesus speaks of the seed sown among thorns, representing those who hear the word but are choked by the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches. This study explores how believers can overcome thorns in their hearts and remain fruitful in their walk with God.

STUDY:

1. Identifying Thorns in Your Heart:
   -Thorns represent the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches that
   can choke the word of God in our hearts (Matthew 13:22).

• Thorns may manifest as distractions, divided hearts, or an excessive desire for wealth that overshadows our spiritual growth.

1. Moderating Desires for Wealth:

• Putting our faith in Christ and trusting Him to provide for our needs (Matthew 6:32) helps us moderate our desire for wealth while seeking solutions and opportunities for growth (Deuteronomy 8:18, 2 Corinthians 1:20).

1. Casting Cares Upon God:

• Believers are encouraged to cast their cares upon God, knowing that He cares for them (1 Peter 5:7-8).
  -Anxiety and worry can choke the word of God in our hearts, hindering our spiritual fruitfulness. Instead, we are urged to pray and trust in God’s provision (Philippians 4:6-8).

1. Practicing Patience and Contentment:

• Patience and contentment are essential in overcoming the thorns of this world (1 Timothy 6:6-10, Hebrews 6:12).
  -By patiently waiting on God and being content with His provision, believers can avoid being choked by the cares of life and remain fruitful in their walk with Him.

CONCLUSION:
Thorns in the heart, representing the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches, can hinder spiritual growth and fruitfulness. Let us continually examine our hearts, casting aside
anything that hinders our spiritual growth, and cultivate a heart that is fertile around for the word of God to fake root and bear fruit.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR READING PLAN
John 5

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