Altered States

To receive God's word, first clear out the thorns and the stones which is unwillingness and distractions. (Good ground must first be prepared by removing hindrances). I must read God's word for application. If I use what I have, I'll be given more understanding to apply more. If not, I'll soon forget what I've read, and it will be as if I've never read it. The crowd were casual hearers, but his disciples where hearing for the purpose of applying. Therefore, his disciples received more. Understanding of God's word accummulates. For me to accummulate God's word, I must be a scribe. A scribe keeps records of what God is teaching them. A scribe is accummulating knowledge. (v. 52) God's words are sown into my thoughts. (God's word must take root to alter my thoughts and behavior). Circumstances on the short term contradict God's word, which tempt us to reject it. We must focus on God's word and off of circumstances. (Matthew 13)