Luke 8:15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.
Verse 18 can be read as a threat, and I resist that interpretation with every fiber of my being. My God is not a hateful God, wagging His finger and saying, “You’d better listen or I’m taking my toys, even those I already gave you, and leaving.” My God is a loving God. He builds people up. He encourages them in love.
Luke 8:16 “No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light.
I have a much easier time reading verse 18 as encouragement and reminder, as though God is saying, “Don’t slip into rote hearing. That way lies danger and complacency. Be an active listener, taking what you hear in My word and applying it to your life so that you can draw even closer to Me.”
Luke 8:17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open.
Precious Savior, It hurts my heart that some see You as a vengeful, hateful, nagging, punitive God. Thank You that that is not who You are to me. Thank You that You are my loving, encouraging, uplifting, compassionate, merciful Savior. Help me to shine Your light for all to see. Amen.
Luke 8:18 Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.”
Have a blessed day.