“How Many Weeds Have Taken Root In Your Life?”

Matthew 7:18

Weeds is defined as a plant considered undesirable in a particular situation; a plant that is not valued where it is growing; one that tends to overgrow or choke out more desirable plants.

Jesus warned of the choking influence of thorns—three kinds of pesky, prickly weeds that squeeze the life out of fruit-producing seedlings. The first weed Jesus warned of is the worries of the world, the anxieties of this age. Worry or anxiety means “to be drawn in different directions” or “to be distracted.” Some people are distracted and worried about what others think about them, preoccupied with pleasing men and gaining their approval. Still others are pulled by their insecurities, trying to find significance in achieving and performing. I wish I could sever the taproot of this weed of distraction and be rid of it forever. The second weed Jesus spoke of is the deceitfulness of riches. Maybe you’re thinking, Hey, I’d rather take my chances with handling riches and whatever deceit comes with it than be poor! Wealth isn’t so bad. Wealth is a deceptive weed that takes over our lives and chokes out our responsiveness to God. When we are in its grip, we spend our lives playing it safe and risking very little for Jesus Christ. The third weed that we find hindering fruitfulness in our lives is the desire for other things. Here we find the weed of a passionate desire or a craving. Some of these weeds are easily spotted, like sexual lust, an addiction to pornography, or perversions. But other cravings aren’t so easily identifiable: food, clothing, jewelry, car, job, salary, a hobby or sport, or even the location or kind of house we live in. Any desire that drives us, controls our thinking, or preoccupies our minds can be a weed that hinders growth in our lives. How many weeds have taken root in your life?

I come by this morning to let you know if left unattended, weeds (negative thoughts) based in fear can take over your lawn (mind) or garden (creativity). Weeds can be carried onto your lawn by the wind (gossip), where they can settle, germinate (take root), and grow. Most weeds are dispersed with the wind. If the weed (negative thought) is not properly removed, it can create much misery for the homeowner (person), making it difficult to restore the lawn (mind) or garden (creativity). Remove the weed (negative thought), or it can destroy your lawn. How many weeds have taken root in your life? Be bless and I love you!!! JE