Introductory Thoughts
The Bible admonishes believers to be stedfast and unmoveable (1 Corinthians 15:58). We are to be grounded and settled (Colossians 1:23) in the faith—much like a tree planted by the rivers of waters (Psalm 1:3). Yet, today's passage points to the dangers of a hardened heart set in rebellion. It is likened to a stone and a millstone. We should remain stedfast in our commitment to serve the Lord, yet our hearts should remain tender and pliable to Him and His will. A stony heart hinders the seed of God’s word from taking root (Matthew 13:5-6). This hardness hinders the possibility of spiritual fruit from taking root and maturing. A soft heart and a stedfast walk exhibit the godly balance that God desires for each of us.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): There are many different kinds of stones. Some are more easily broken than others. The Bible tells us that God's people made their hearts like an adamant stone, an extremely hard or unbreakable one. They refused to hear God's law and the messages of His prophets. They only hurt themselves and for this reason God sent them into captivity (Zechariah 7:12-14).
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(For everyone): Is your heart hard? Are you cold and indifferent toward the workings of God in your heart? Have you repented of your sins and asked the Lord to work in your heart?
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What are some of the effects you would expect to see from someone who has a hardened heart? Are those traits present in your life? Are you willing to seek the Lord's help in softening your heart?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to show you the true condition of your heart.
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Ask God to help you repent at the first indication of a hardening heart.
Song
Come, O Thou All Victorious Lord
