Matthew 13:3-4 New International Version (NIV)
3 Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path.
Tuesday - June 23 - Read Matthew 13:3-4, 19 There are two ditches that people often fall into when thinking about the devil. On one side is the idea that the devil does not exist. On the other is the idea that the devil is behind every bad thing that happens. Late for work? The devil must have made every traffic light turn red on your drive! Or… you just need to get out of bed earlier. Jesus confirms that the devil is real and active in this world, but that is only the 1st of 4 scenarios in this parable. Don’t give too much power to the devil! Also, Jesus compares the devil to a bird that eats seed before it can grow. But when birds eat seeds they actually transport them to new places! So, even when the devil is at his worst, God’s will still spread and grow the kingdom! The devil will never be able to stop God’s kingdom or keep you from God’s mercy and love.