From Matthew 13.20-21 I learn that seeds don’t root deeply in thin, rocky soil. Likewise, blind spots in my life indicate shallowness. Unfortunately, shallow-mindedness is deadly!
Pay attention! The precepts don’t thrive in a shallow character. Matthew 13.18, 20-21 paraphrase
The Precept Explained
You don’t know what you don’t know!
Hence, the need for outside opinions to uncover blind spots.
Furthermore, I must be able to think deeply and critically about myself!
But why? Because self-evaluation has an impact on me personally and professionally.
Conversely, blind spots are a problem.
As such, blind spots indicate areas of shallow-mindedness.
Turns out, shallow-mindedness is deadly. Furthermore, it’s just as deadly as narrow-mindedness!
The Parable
Now, in Matthew 13 we read the Parable of the Sower.
Basically, the parable compares character development to the readiness for planting of various soils.
In the story, the precepts are the seeds and my character is the soil.
As it turns out, Matthew 13.20-21 describes thin, rocky soil.
Shallow Soil
Well, you know this drill. Actually, the thin, rocky soil looks good on the surface.
In fact, it accepts the seed but because there’s no depth the seed cannot take root.
Likewise, a shallow, over-emotional, simple-minded character doesn’t think critically.
Instead, it takes everything personally and at face value.
Unfortunately, a shallow character doesn’t develop discernment.
As such, discernment is critical for personal and professional growth. Also, for enduring challenges.
Overcoming Shallowness
Again, you know the routine. To get rid of shallow, rocky soil you must dig below the surface to find and remove the stones.
Likewise, for shallow-mindedness, I must remove those blind spots! But, if you don’t know what you don’t know, then you will need some outside assistance.
First, don’t lean on your own insight, Proverbs 3.5. Similarly, stop being such a know-it-all, Proverbs 3.7. Instead, learn to trust God’s guidance and His timing, Proverbs 3.5.
Then, be willing to listen to sound advice, Proverbs 1.5, even when it’s uncomfortable to hear, Proverbs 27.6.
Remember, wisdom is calling to each of us, if we will listen, Proverbs 1.20 and Proverbs 4.20-22.
Apply This Today!
For starters, my personal growth requires an honest self-assessment.
Next, I enter the uncomfortable process of digging out those hard areas – the blind spots, of my shallow character.
Finally, I choose to nurture habits that bring growth into my life.
What do you think? Send me a comment: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com