September 25, 2015:  SOAP #2122:

Scripture:  Luke (NIV) 8:11 “This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God.  12 Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved.  13 Those on the rock are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. 14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. 15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.

Observation:   In this chapter the Speaker, Jesus, teaches about hearing His words.  He also speaks to the storm and it obeys his words!  At the end of the chapter He speaks to a dead girl and she returns to life!   The power to heal and work miracles resided in Him—He usually released it through His words.

Application:    How important it is for me to hear His words.  He is a speaker; I expect He has something to say.  He loves me; I expect He has something to say to me.

Prayer:   Lord, As the line in the Maranatha song goes: Open my ears, Lord, and help me to listen.  I want to hear Your Word.  I want to remember Your Word.  I want to live Your Word.  I want Your Word to be effective in my life.   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!