When Risk Management must be Refused

S - "Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.”" (Mark 4:16-20 NIV)

O - All these years later these dynamics are in force for everything the Lord says and does.  When he first speaks, reveals, acts the joy is intense and confidence is strong.  Yet, "when trouble or persecution comes" … and it does come, then we see if we will trust the Lord's person or wither under the opposition earth can bring.  We choose if our roots will go deep in the soil of what he's doing/speaking.  Even with deepening roots the risk remains that desires for lawful things and blessings will choke out what has been growing and it will never come to its intended fullness.  But if anyone will let the roots grow deep and refuse the earthly logic of worry, the lure of wealth and the distraction of lawful desires the result is fantastic … the very least is a 30 times return. Who wouldn't engage a dynamic where the worst outcome is a 300% increase?  Forget risk management … trust is the key.  The working definition of trust: fierce personal loyalty.  Not loyalty to a principle, promise or concept but to a person; a person who is fiercely loyal to us.  

A - I admit that I am still very capable of withering … even in realities I've lived out before.  I admit that earth's logic, lure and distractions of needed and lawful things can choke out the beautiful and intended abundance heaven has been leading, calling and helping me towards.  The resolution for me does not come exclusively in reviewing my history … though so far it’s all proved true.  This review is encouraging but is not a remedy for the threat of withering heat and earth's lure.  The remedy is found in a personal response to the person of Jesus according to trust.  Today, while it is called today, I will engage the fierce personal loyalty he offers and deserves … unto new wineskins, mulberry trees in the ocean and that which is too wonderful for me.

P - Lord Jesus,

Thank you for not only showing us the way and being the way but for enabling us to engage the way that is life forever … starting now.  I welcome the vibrant irrepressible life you are to come into and out of me unto the very things you've been sowing into me these years.  I am grateful to be in your company and for the dignity of choice.  I choose you back.  I am encouraged by your presence and your personal guarantee.  I do believe you about earth.

Trusting,

Steve