The writer of the Book of Hebrews provides a parable. The earth drinks water from the rain, it is expected to bear plants or herbs that are useful for cultivators. It is a true blessing. Nevertheless, if it bears thorns, thistles, and briars, it is rejected and is nearly cursed, and in the end, it would be burnt. (Hebrews 5:7-8) In other words writer asks: “You are blessed, where is the fruit?” Believers are expected to bear fruit by remaining in the Lord Jesus Christ. (John 15:5) Lack of fruitfulness and spiritual maturity is dangerous. There could be four reasons for an unproductive life. (Proverbs 24:30-31)
Laziness: A lazy or sluggard or laggard, who neither takes initiative nor interest in anything. They could be spiritually lazy to follow edifying disciplines like prayer, meditating on the Scripture, fellowship with saints, and being a witness in the community. Their mind could be lazy and unwilling to meditate on the Word of God. The physical body is not under discipline as Paul advises. (I Corinthians 9:27)
Lack of sense: This means first to lack of sensitivity to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and second, being ignorant of Satan’s tactics and strategy to make a believer unproductive. Sadly, unproductive believers grieve the Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 4:30) A lot of distractions, for lack of focus. Satan could divert to choose the second or third best, instead of God’s perfect choices.
Overgrown: There are a lot of unwanted things like nettles, weeds, thorns, and thistles, which overwhelm the good crops. Anxiety worries about the present, temporal things, and the pursuit of riches make a field overgrown. Too many ambitions, and desires, and trying to please people instead of God could make a soul overgrown.
No fencing: The stone wall around the field was broken down. Whatever sprouts, that were eaten by stray cattle, or robbed by trespassers. Some people create shortcuts to walk through the field which damages the crops. Holy and righteous life by the grace of God is the protection.
Am I a fruitful bough like Joseph, blessing others? (Genesis 49:22)