“The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature.” Luke 8:14 (NIV)

You can’t hear God if your mind is crowded with other thoughts or concerns—particularly worries, finances, and activities. And if you’re always listening to music or watching tv, the circuits are going to be busy when God calls. That’s why it’s important to eliminate distractions.

Jesus says in Luke 8:7, “Some other seeds fell where thornbushes grew up and choked the plants” (CEV).

Jesus paints a mental picture here of seeds being planted in soil that’s already filled with weeds. So as the crop grows, weeds also grow up around it. And they begin to choke out the life of the crop, so it never bears fruit.

Here’s what Jesus says is the meaning of Luke 8:7: “The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature” (Luke 8:14 NIV).

Three things choke out hearing God:

Worry. Worries are weeds. When you’re so busy with the problems and pressures of daily living, it makes it harder to hear God.

Riches. You can be so busy trying to pay your bills, so busy trying to get out of debt, so busy trying to make a little more, and so busy making a living that you don’t ever make a life.

Pleasure. There’s nothing wrong with pleasure. Just be careful that you don’t become so busy pursuing fun that you miss what God wants to say to you and the plans he has for your life.

Have you ever noticed how weeds don’t need cultivating? They grow automatically. In fact, weeds are a sign of neglect. If you see weeds in your yard or garden, it means it’s time to tend to it. The weeds in your spiritual life reveal that you might be neglecting time with God—who loves you deeply and wants to spend time with you.

When all the circuits are busy and the weeds of worry, riches, and pleasure are choking your relationship with God, it’s the perfect time to pause and get quiet. Take time to clear away the noise so you can hear God’s voice more clearly.