The Trampled Soil

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Now that we've had some time to contemplate whether or not we were ever this type of soil, let's consider how we can describe this soil and what is the impact to any seeds that fall on soil of a used trampled path.

I would describe soil of a used trampled path to be compacted, hardened, and/or worn-down. Now, how does this relate to seed development or lack thereof? Seeds cannot take root on a trampled path for the following reasons:

1. Compacted soil is tightly packed soil;

2. Compacted soil becomes hardened from the inability to easily absorb moisture and the evaporation of moisture in hot weather is not conducive to seed development; and/or

3. Constantly trampled upon, well-worn path often leads to destroyed seeds.

“A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell along the path and was trampled underfoot, and the birds of the air devoured it…Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved.

-Luke 8:5 & 11-12 (ESV)

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Now, let's interpret this to individual reception of God's word. This is the way I see it:

• Individuals choose not to be open to receive God's word relying solely on his own intellect and personal experiences at that time (compacted soil);

• Hardened heart due to relationships or lack thereof with people (hardened condition); and/or

• Constantly choosing the same path, usually the path of least resistance, the one that a person generally believes that he knows the outcome in the here-and-now in order to maintain some semblance of control in their lives.

How do you view the trampled soil? How would you describe this trampled soil literally? As interpreted through Luke 8:5 & 11-12?