To Reap What You Sow

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

There is a popular catchphrase that says – you reap what you sow. It’s often interpreted to mean that we get what we give. It’s based on the following scripture, but such an interpretation doesn’t fully capture the message below:

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.  For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 

Galatians 6:7-8

God hold us accountable. If we give into our selfish and sinful desires, we will reap corruption because we have strayed away from God’s commandments. Yet if we secure ourselves in God, we will reap of His blessings, including His mercy and favor, and ultimately everlasting life. While this promise seems straight forward, it can be hard to believe when life hands us circumstances that we feel we don’t deserve.

The Promise in Not Losing Heart

The scripture goes on to say in verse 9: And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Why give this reminder if we simply reap what we sow? Well, because life can go off track in between the sowing and the reaping. In this scripture, God reminds us that the beginning doesn’t indicate the end. Nevertheless, it’s difficult to fully embrace the idea that God has our back when we’re abiding in His Spirit and still face unforeseen circumstances. Such angst can become a major source of spiritual doubt.

In these situations, I’ve cried out to God asking – where are You? And each time God has responded the same – where, are You? And it’s an important question because when I enter into spiritual darkness, I lose sight of God’s goodness. I stop believing in His impossibilities, as I reckon with what’s in front of me. Inherently, I may know that God is always with me, but let’s be honest. It’s not the easiest for us to be with Him during our seasons of trial. The devil wants to push us away from God, all while God is beckoning us to draw closer. And sometimes, the devil wins.

Yet in our darkest moments, God asks us to not lose heart. There is so much greatness to be reaped if we can do what is good even when life has taken us so low. And this good that is referenced isn’t just about helping others. It’s about the good we develop through our relationship with Christ. It’s in the choices we make as we trust that God will deliver us from evil – seen and unseen. God is asking us to not let the weariness distract us. Instead, we must believe in the reaping. It’s how we get to the other side of our situations.

The Strength to Endure

Still, it is difficult to not let the weariness consume us. We’re living in these situations and feeling their impact every single day. Trauma is not just a moment. It creates wounds that need to be healed, and problems that need to be resolved. Our lives are disrupted, and we experience the pain of brokenness. Sometimes, the burdens are unbearable. In those moments, it’s not just about leaning on God through self. Solicit the prayers and support from those you love and trust. And if you feel alone, find a church and experience God through community.

The Power in Intercession

And for those of us who are not in the valley of pain, we are to help carry the heavy burdens of others. We must embrace the power of intercessory prayer, offer our support, and share the blessings that God has bestowed upon us.

But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.  So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. 

II Corinthians 9:6-7

Now I know this is scripture is often used for tithe and offerings, but this verse goes beyond money. We should be giving of our time, our energy, our devotion, and our love. The grace that God bestows upon us, we should freely give to others with a sense of joy in our hearts. Love’s an action, and our actions are our greatest testimonies.

The Space Between

What we give impacts what we receive, yet we must acknowledge the space between sowing and reaping. Think of growing a plant. Time must pass before a seed grows into a full plant that bears fruit. During the growth process, there may be bad weather. Animals may attack the plant. Leaves may need to be trimmed, but each new day provides you with an opportunity to tend to your plant – to care for it, and to help it endure unforeseen circumstances. Sometimes, your plant may even die. But if you keep trying, and you keep applying what you’ve learned, you will get better – and eventually, your plant will bear fruit.

Putting good into this life doesn’t make us immune to challenges. Instead, our choices help to strengthen our relationship with God so when faced with trials, we can: Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed. (Hebrews 12: 12 & 13) We may not be able to control all the negative that comes to us, but with God, we are given the strength to not only endure, but to overcome.

In every situation, there is power in God holding our hands and guiding us to the other side. So today, I pray that you have the strength to endure, that the weariness does not consume you, and that your trust in God prevails. Stand firm in His love. Be bold in His promises, and don’t be afraid to be specific in your prayer requests. God sees you, and He hears you. The timing may not be what you want, but if you remain hopeful, God will show up. He will deliver the impossible, and by His grace, you will reap in due season.