Reaping Good

Scripture

Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at a proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. -Galatians 6:8-9

I believe there are moments in this Christian journey when we're tempted to get discouraged because of the things we go through. As we pursue the things of the Spirit, the battles can become daunting. It may seem like others, especially those in the world, have it easier. It may seem like life presents bundles of adversities, afflictions, and misfortunes while we're trying to sow to the Spirit. What we have to remember is that when we're sowing to the Spirit, we're walking in step with the Holy Spirit. We're intentionally living out the fruit of the Spirit, which are love, joy, faith, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, and self-control. We're trusting that the ministry of the Holy Spirit is at work with us at all times.

What you sow in the Spirit, you will receive that harvest. Don't be discouraged because the good that you sow in the Spirit realm will reap eternal life. This does not simply cover reading the Bible and praying. This involves living and sowing in the Spirit in all areas of our lives: family, profession/career, encounters with people, etc. For example, I'm a leader in my career, and there are times when I want to give it up because of situations and encounters I face. I'm so tempted to give up the position and retreat, but the Holy Spirit encourages me not to be weary in well doing. Because we are admonished to do everything as if we're doing it unto God,  the fruit of the Spirit must always be displayed in that area of my life. We can't just sow in the Spirit in church; it has to be in every area.

Though walking in this way can be arduous, think of the alternative. If we're not sowing in the Spirit, then we're sowing in the flesh. Although it may feel good for a moment, indulging in fleshly desires and worldly pursuits leads to destruction. If we sow into the flesh, then we'll reap corruption. Beloved, take heart, we are all still being processed, and we're growing. God is building spiritual stamina in us all and giving us divine empowerment along the way. Don't be weary in doing good, sowing in the Spirit, we'll reap a great harvest of spiritual maturity and growth. 

Prayer

Father, help us to sow to the Spirit. We confess that there have been times we have sown in the flesh, but today we choose to sow to the Spirit. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, and help us sow into your Spirit instead. Guide our steps so that I may consistently do good. Help me not to grow weary in these efforts, even when I feel discouraged or the results are not immediately visible. In Jesus' name. Amen