Mark 4:19 (ESV)

19 but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.

The word of God is powerful. It is described as a double-edged sword that can pierce the hearts of men. Growing up, I have made it a goal to get deeper in the word. The Bible has helped me in my darkest moments – giving me hope and life and it has been a constant companion in the midst of success – acting as a mirror to remind me that in the midst of blessing and success it is God who made all of it possible.

But what chokes the word of God and make it unfruitful for the life of the believer. Mark tells us that the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desire for other things.

The cares of this world – worry

The deceitfulness of riches – the need for power and control.

The desire for things – greed and the pursuit of comfort.

How do we get the word of God to bring life and contentment to us? We must once again learn to trust and submit to the Lord our worries and our needs to the Lord. Until we come to the place of surrender – the Word of God will be choked by the cares and lures of this materialistic and success-driven world.

Lord may I not allow the worries of this world, greed and the need for power choke the Word of God in my life. I ask the Lord to have His way in me in Jesus name!