Is something choking the Word?

Matthew 13:22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

The Word can be choked and cause us to become unfruitful. First, this is talking about salvation! Things, this world, my comfort could be more important than trusting the Lord Jesus and what He did on the cross for my salvation. Second, another application is that I might not be as used of God as I could because I allow things in my life that would hinder what God is doing. Money is never the answer. It does not satisfy. It does not save. It does not meet out needs. This world can become so important to us that we do not show God and the next world the importance that we should. I want to evaluate myself. I want to be sure that I am not allowing money, comfort, popularity, position, power, of this world be so important to me that it is hindering the work of God in my life!