A man reaps what he sows
Galatians 6:7 - Our choices make a huge impact on our lives and spiritual well-being.
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“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
Galatians 6:7 NIV
The Epistle to the Galatians is another of Paul’s letters of encouragement, instruction, and criticism to the early followers of Jesus. In this epistle, he was primarily focused on the conversion of Gentiles to Christianity, arguing (quite successfully) that the Gentile Galatians do not need to follow the Law of Moses — specifically in reference to male circumcision. Galatians was very influential on the history of Christianity and how Christian theology developed, and provides a lot of background into the character and thinking of the Apostle Paul.
By this last chapter of the epistle, Paul has wrapped up his discussion and is reminding the readers to be generous and gentle to all, and especially to support those who are leaders and teachers in the church. Paul has just reminded readers that “the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.” (Galatians 6:6 NIV).
Paul was probably hearing that the teachers (preachers) in the Galatian churches were struggling financially, which is why he chose to conclude the epistle with this reminder. This still happens today; there are many people who consider themselves to be “good Christians” who refuse to be generous in supporting their church through volunteerism or giving.
Throughout Scripture, God teaches us His principle of sowing and reaping - one cannot receive the benefit of a harvest without planting seeds. Giving to support the church isn’t throwing away money; Paul is comparing it to planting seeds, and the giver will reap what he sows.
Precept Austin provides some excellent commentary on the principle of sowing and reaping:
Whatever a man sows - Whatever would include thoughts, words or deeds. Stop a moment and ask "What am I planting in each of these areas?" We are planting seeds all day long, every day, for each day is filled with manifold choices and each choice is either leaning toward the flesh or toward the Spirit. There is no neutral "field" for our seed choices!
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Matthew Henry said it well “Our present time is seed-time: in the other world there will be a great harvest. We shall reap then as we sow now.”
This he will also reap - This is an unbreakable promise, an immutable principle in God’s order. It applies to both believers and non-believers. While God commands us to be holy, we should not be surprised that we are seeing little growth in holiness if we are frequently sowing seeds to our fallen flesh.
The commentary also quotes this wonderful saying on sowing and reaping from 19th century British author Samuel Smiles:
Sow a thought, and you reap an act;
Sow an act, and you reap a habit;
Sow a habit, and you reap a character;
Sow a character, and you reap a destiny.
Thinking that it is wasteful to give time and treasure to a person who teaches the Word mocks God, Who is generous to those who give to Him. Christians shouldn’t give simply because it is good for the preacher or the church building fund; they should do it because it is good for them.
In a nutshell, Galatians 6:7 teaches us about accountability and that our actions have consequences. Our choices make a huge impact on our lives and spiritual well-being.
Heaven On Wheels Daily Prayer:
Father in Heaven, Thank You for the truth of Your Word. Continue to impress upon me the importance of sowing good deeds and living a life that honor You. I humbly ask that you grant me a generous spirit, guide me to make the best use of my time and resources, and direct me towards actions that reflect Your love and grace. AMEN.