You Will Reap What You Sow

Galatians 6:6-10 states,

 The one who is taught the word is to share all good things with the one who teaches him. Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.

Many times this scripture is used in a negative light. When we are angry we say, "you are going to reap what you sow". Why do we do this? This is arrogance at it's finest, and we have all been guilty at times. Of course they are all going to reap what they sow; but it is not our place to lash out at people with this verses intending to punish! God is the only judge! 

These verses addressed a particular subject.  there is, however, a principle represented that can be applied to many different situations in our lives. Let us look at it in a more positive light. Notice the latter verses are actually focused on sowing to the Spirit and reaping good.

If I want someone to earnestly pray for me during my weak times, then I need to ask myself if I am earnestly praying for others during their weak times. If I were to say that I would pray for someone and just breathe a quick prayer so that I could say that I prayed; that would be wrong. They may not receive any benefit from that insincere prayer. I will receive absolutely no benefit at all. It would simply be a source of pride that I could say, "I prayed for you!"  If I want to reap a sincere, heartfelt prayer in my time of need, then I need to say a prayer that counts, one that is real; one that I would want someone to pray for me.

If I want positive mentors in my children's lives, then I need to be a positive mentor. There may be a time in my children's lives where they will not listen to my voice. Who then will they be listening to?

Essentially, whatever the scenario,  I do not need to wait until my time of need before I sow the seed. 

I could not put it more simply or perfectly than the scripture that follows:

Do to others as you would have them do to you. (Luke 6:31)

We need to be sure that when we do these things, that we do not make a spectacular show out of it. The Word of God is clear about this:

 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
 “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.  But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,  so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (Matthew 6:1-4)

There are times when you should share your experiences, but remember, God knows the motivation of your heart! All things are clearly visible to Him.