Refuse to be Distracted

And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.  And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. (Mark 4:15-19)

Jesus said, 'If you can understand this parable, you can understand all the parables I have spoken.' This is the key to everything Jesus taught because it reveals Satan’s strategy to prevent God’s Word from influencing your life. See, the enemy doesn’t care if you hear the Bible, as long as it doesn’t change you or your circumstances. However, he knows that once the Word is sown, it can take effect. That’s why he doesn’t waste time. Satan comes right away—not casually, not eventually—but immediately. Why? Because the Word is the most dangerous weapon to stop any of his schemes or attacks. If the Word takes root in a heart of faith, it has no choice but to change lives, deliver people, and advance God’s purposes and plans. The enemy’s first tactic is always to steal. He wants to take the Word away from you before it can take root, trying to make you believe that “this isn’t for me” or “this doesn’t apply to me.” If that doesn’t work, he’ll turn up the pressure.

Jesus said affliction and persecution arise for the Word’s sake. So, the attack against you isn’t really about you but about what you carry. Satan’s goal is to get you into offense. Why? Because an offended believer will never be fruitful. If one tactic doesn’t work, Satan shifts his approach to distract you and move your focus away from what you heard. Jesus taught us so we wouldn’t be caught off guard when the attack happens.

Practical Application

Don’t be caught off guard by attacks—be ready for them. The enemy isn’t afraid of your church attendance; he fears believers who receive the Word and act on it. When pressure arises, refuse to be offended and choose to stay rooted.

Matthew 13:21; John 8:31