2. Matthew 13:18-23 (NKJV) 18 "Therefore hear the parable of the sower: 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand it, then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the wayside. 20 But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.

3. Matthew 13:18-23 (NKJV) 22 Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. 23 But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty."

4.  For our own relationship with God – 2 Cor 6:14-7:1; Rev 18:4  For our effectiveness in the world – Mat 5:13- 16; Phil 2:15,16

5.  An upward outlook – 2 Cor 4:8-18  An attitude of gratitude - Phili 4:6,7  A focus on things beneficial & productive – Phili 4:8,9  Contentment – Phili 4:11,12  A “can do” attitude – Phili 4:13

6.  The need for growth – Heb 5:12-14  Accomplished by feeding upon the word of God – 1 Pet 2:1,2  In faith & love – 2 Thes 1:3  Adding to faith to ensure success – 2 Pet 1:5-10

7.  There is a high cost to live the Christian life – Luke 14:28  Salvation involves work – John 6:27; Phili 2:12  Temperance requires discipline – 1 Cor 9:24-27  Growth requires “giving all diligence” – 2 Pet 1:5, 10

8.  A necessary part of serving Christ – Mat 25:31-46  When we by love serve others we assure our hearts – 1 John 3:16-19  Measure of true success in the kingdom – Mark 10:43-45  That we may win others to Christ – 1 Cor 9:19

9.  Take advantage of opportunities when they arise – Eccl 9:10; Gal 6:10  Today is the day to serve God for time is running out – 2 Cor 6:2; Rom 13:11  Time is to be redeemed – Eph 5:16; Col 4:5

10.  Looking unto Jesus – Heb 12:1-3  Looking to attain unto the resurrection of the dead – Phili 3:10-14  Looking for a city to come which is heaven – Heb 11:13-16; 1 Pet 1:3,4

11.  Being Separate From The World  Keeping A Positive Attitude  Continual Growth  Paying The Price For Success  Dedication To Serving Others  Being Good Time Managers  Keeping Eye On The Goal

12. John 15:1-8 (NKJV) 1 "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. 5 I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

13. John 15:1-8 (NKJV) 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples