Matthew 13:22
He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
Matthew 13:22
This verse describes the thorny ground: the word is choked by life’s cares, deceitfulness of riches, and desires for other things. Jesus identifies the competing concerns that crowd out spiritual growth: wealth, worry about the world, and overwhelming ambition or comfort.
It highlights how discipleship can be hindered by misplaced priorities. The word may be heard, but if it’s not allowed to take root amid competing commitments, it bears little fruit. It speaks to the tension between spiritual and material concerns in a world that often tempts believers away from kingdom priorities.
Evaluate what dominates your time and resources. Are you letting work, finances, or status squeeze out time for prayer, Scripture, and service? Reorder priorities to ensure that God’s word has room to grow. Practical steps: set boundary lines for work, budget for generosity, and schedule regular acts of service or worship that keep the word from being crowded out.
Cross-References: Matthew 6:19-24; Luke 12:15-34; Colossians 3:2