I've had a message burning my heart for weeks now. I truly believe in the midst of the darkness of this hour, God has prepared a harvest from His Word which is ripening in the hearts of His people. Therefore it is important to understand the principles of harvest and to be aware of the enemy's schemes to destroy the harvest. The parable of the sower in Mark 4 contains this revelation. Although it refers to separate individuals and how they receive the Word (seed) it also reveals progressive steps we all go through whenever God sends His Word to us. James 1:21 tells us that it is the implanted and rooted Word that has the power to save. Think about what God has put in your heart perhaps some calling, some burden for loved ones, some promise made alive to you but as yet unseen.

If possible, Satan will just take the Word from us by force (Mark 4:15).
This happens when we aren't yielded to the Lord or are leaning on our own understanding. In looking back, I see that God was sending His Word about healing for a long time before I would even consider or pray about it. I believed I was called to be sick and because God was using me in my suffering, I rejected that Word whenever it came my understanding shut it out. But there came a time when God softened my heart and broke my will and then I received that Word with joy. My health improved dramatically for a time but then trouble came. Why? Because of the Word! (Mark 4:17) But I didn't know this tactic so when physically things got worse, I doubted the Word. Or sometimes when I'd try to stand, people would come against the Word. Satan was able to pluck my little sprouts as I wavered back and forth according to my circumstances. My heart was rocky soil but God faithfully continued to show me His will whenever I sought Him and so the seed finally began to take root.

Once the harvest has roots, the tactics of the enemy change. He can no longer take the seed or uproot the shallow plant. So now he must choke the harvest (Mark 4:19). I believe this final tactic is where most Christians lose the battle because they fail to "weed" their field. There are three types of "thorns" or "weeds" described in verse 19 that will kill our harvest.