Galatians 6:7-10
Do not be deceived. God is not mocked. To be sure, whatever a man sows, he will also reap. Indeed, the one who sows for his own sinful flesh will reap destruction from the sinful flesh. But the one who sows for the spirit will reap eternal life from the spirit. Let us not become weary of doing good, because at the appointed time we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who belong to the household of faith.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for reminding us not to be worried because you cannot be fooled. We look out at the world and see the depravity of everything happening around us; it may seem like evilness is in control. But these words from Paul remind two things. First, it must have been pretty bad during Paul’s time that he had to remind the congregations of Galatia that you know what everyone is doing. We are not to get hoodwinked by Satan or the world when they are sowing weeds of destruction, pain, and sorrow. Lord, you know whatever a person sows, especially when the world plans and contemplates ways to lawlessness. Here you remind us that you already know, and they will reap the same as they have sown.
The other thing Paul’s words tell us is to hold on to you because you are in control. You allow their plans to metastasize to their own destruction, but you still have control over it for your believers. We also reap what we sow. We cling to our Savior, who died on the cross for us and gave us his righteousness in return for our sins. The Holy Spirit planted faith in our hearts—the seeds of Christ’s love and forgiveness. In turn, we sow seeds of love and forgiveness to others. What will we reap in return? Lord, you promise that we will also reap what we have sown. Through the forgiveness of our sins, we receive life, salvation, and restoration to you; this is our harvest.
Through Paul, your Holy Spirit gives us the encouragement not to give up but to cling on to you. Because the world may seem bleak, but when we help those in need giving them the peace of Christ’s forgiveness, we are planting seeds of faith. We get to assist and encourage those who are in faith to hold on to you. Therefore, your word heightens the peace, hope, joy, and love of those around us, giving them this courage and not being deceived by whatever is happening around them or us. Because for all who believe in you, we have eternal life. Father, give us strength to always cling to you; this world is not ours; let the world have the world because heaven is our home. Amen.
Roger Emmons
Pastor
Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church
“Take the world and give me Jesus! All its joys are but a name. But his love abides forever, Through eternal years the same. Oh, the height and depth of mercy; oh, the length and breadth of love! Oh, the fullness of redemption, Pledge of endless life above!” CW 355, vs. 1.