"A Ready Heart" by Gale Nelson
Date: Sunday, August 9, 2020

Death is a harsh reminder that we need to prepare. Jesus went to prepare a place for the saints that our hearts should not be troubled. Don't let your mind be so dismayed that you forget to prepare. Christians not ignorant: we understand this world is not our home.

It is written, "Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin."

#ReadyHeart #Mindset #ParableOfTheSower #FruitYieldingSeed #Readiness #WordofGod

PRACTICAL LESSON POINTS:

* The seed that is planted will bring forth fruit after his kind, just as the Earth did... Genesis 1:10-12

* "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear..." Luke 8:9-10
Those who are seeking the will of God, desiring to know the truth, unto him will it be given.

* Wayward Soil... Luke 8:12
The influence of the devil will run supreme. The seed will not take up residence in the individual's heart because there is no room for it. These people don't want to hear it. There is no dirt, nor soil for planting!

* Rocky Soil... Luke 8:13
The soil is thin and shallow. These individuals will obey the gospel, but there will be no root. For a while they will believe, but then as their faith is tested through temptations or trials and tribulations, they fall away.

* Thorny Soil... Luke 8:14
The soil was challenged that something had to give. The seed was planted in the midst of thorns. These people hear the word, but are choked with the riches and cares of this life. They will bring no fruit to perfection.

* Good Soil... Luke 8:14
Fertile ground. Keep God's Word and do his will until called home. There is perseverance and cultivation (Romans 10:17), fruit shall be brought forth with patience. These individuals are always mindful anything that can distract or take away from their service to God. Keep the weeds out!

WHAT DOES THE WORD OF GOD PRODUCE?!

* There is only one Gospel, not after man... Galatians 1:6-12.

* There is no earthly headquarters for the church of Christ... John 18:36
Spiritual kingdom has a spirtual defense. Jesus' kingdom is not of this world. His church is the territory, his saints are the subjects, and he is the glorious King. The one church is head by Christ (Matthew 16:18).

* The word of God moved us from the power of darkness into the kingdom of his dear Son... Colossians 1:12-14

* The seed (word of God) produces a Christian, or a servant of righteousness... Romans 6:17-18 and Acts 11:26

CALL TO ACTION:
* Do You Want to be a Christian? Is the Soil ready to receive the word of God?
* God's Plan of Salvation... https://miamigardenscoc.net/salvation.php

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Recommended Links
* A State of Readiness: https://youtu.be/qxTR6QORVv8
* Abounding Faith: https://youtu.be/2GqlAQ_ZBOk
* Website: https://www.miamigardenscoc.net