Roots

In ancient times, farmers would broadcast their seed by hand, which allowed some of it to fall on rocky, uncultivated ground as well as the finely cultivate, good soil.  The result was crop that grew up quickly but because of its shallow root, just as quickly withered in the hot sun.

Jesus used this agri-metaphor to describe people, who come to faith but do not sink down deep roots of faith: "Those on the rocky ground 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" (Lk 8:13).

The key to preparation of land to allow the seed to develop root is cultivation, the tilling or turning over of the ground again and again util it is ready to receive the seed.  It isn't enough just to drop the seed on the ground or scratch the surface and then drop it there, cultivation takes purposes time and effort.

In regard to preparing our hearts and minds for a faith in God that will survive and thrive in the heat of adversity or the dry winds of personal loss, we too must cultivate soil of the inner man by spending daily time with God in prayer and study of His Word.  Perhaps some Christian music would be of help or a daily devotional reading.  Whatever it is that brings your spirit before God in quiet openness, that is the cultivation you need daily.

In addition to a daily time alone with God, I believe the proper cultivation of our heart and soul requires a weekly gathering with other Christians to encourage the growth that is taking place on the inside: "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another..." (Heb 10:24-5).

Growing crops is an important undertaking tha requires a fair amount of cultivation.  Even more important is the cultivation of our heart and soul.  Why would we not want to take the time, energy and effort needed to fully prepare our inner man to live in faith?  Jus' Ask'n.