Matthew 13.23 shows how character building dramatically increases my productivity. Hence, character development builds capacity.
Pay attention! Absorbing the precepts produces a discerning character that’s capable of dramatic growth. Matthew 13.18, 23 paraphrase
The Precept Explained
Personal growth – on purpose – comes from diligent character building.
As a result, I dramatically increase my capacity to produce.
Conversely, I don’t need to be smarter or work harder to become more productive! But, I do need to work on my character.
The Parable
As expected, the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13 uses the sow-reap mental model. As such, it compares character development to how ready various soils are for planting.
The precepts are the seeds. And, my character is the soil. However, the focus of the story is on the condition of the soil.
The Soils
Good soil is highly productive, according to Matthew 13.23.
Likewise, I position myself for dramatic personal growth by carefully building my character.
In contrast, the prior verses reveal soil types that are not so productive.
For example, soil that is packed hard, Matthew 13.19. Or, shallow and rocky, Matthew 13.20–21. Or, soil that’s over-grown with weeds, Matthew 13.22.
That said, each of those unproductive soils require some work before planting.
Similarly, I must work on my character.
The Deeper Meaning
In like manner, I work on the soil of my character.
I remove narrow-mindedness and hard-headedness.
Also, I get rid of shallow-mindedness or simple-mindedness.
Finally, I must root out materialism and cares that are distracting.
In short, my personal and professional growth requires that I be teachable. Also, I’m to be discerning so I build experiential insights. And, I must be willing to multiply by deepening my character.
Less hard-headed, less shallow, and less materialistic. Now, those are some good traits to have less of!
Apply This Today!
Fact is, I’m responsible for the depth of my character. As it turns out, that’s hard work!
But, character development builds capacity. So. that’s the good news.
Hence, I must build my capacity through personal and professional growth.
In so doing, I position myself to multiply personally and professionally!
What do you think? Send me a comment: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com