Not everything hindering our spiritual growth looks like a serious sin. Sometimes, it’s simply something taking up space that belongs to God.
In Matthew 13:22, Jesus describes the seed among thorns. We receive God’s Word and growth begins, but the thorns eventually choke it. The Word is there, but so are competing influences.
The “thorns” in our lives can be different: an unhealthy relationship, constant entertainment, social media, an unchecked habit, an old offense, or even ambitions that slowly take our attention away from Christ. Some things may not be sinful in themselves, but they can still become weights that hinder our walk with God (Hebrews 12:1).
That’s why we need to honestly ask ourselves: What is consistently weakening my desire for God? What keeps pulling my attention away from Him?
Removing those things isn't legalism; it's wisdom. If we want to grow and bear fruit, we have to be willing to remove whatever is competing with God's work in us.
Guard your heart. Stay rooted in God's Word. Remain close to Jesus. And when you discover a thorn, don't ignore it; remove it.
Jesus isn't finished with you yet. 🤍
