“And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth.” John 4:37
Sometimes we need to share. We may have produce, praise, profit, property, power, or prestige to share. We can’t always take the credit or hoard benefits all to ourselves, especially when others help, contribute, or are in need. God’s Word says we reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7). However, It also says that sometimes we’ll do the sowing while others reap the fruit of our efforts and investments. That can be difficult to swallow when you’ve put in the hours and paid the cost. But, who are we to question God’s plan of sowing and reaping?
Sadly, we live in a rather selfish and self-centered culture full of selfies and self-indulgence where sharing doesn’t come naturally. We expect the best, want the most, and demand it fast. We don’t always get what we want, but tend to think we’re entitled to it.
Sometimes We Get to Reap
Reaping from our physical or spiritual labors is a gift from God. It motivates, inspires and drives us to work harder which gives us more of what we need or want with some to spare. This not only helps us with our goals but also in our service for Christ. When we see productive and fruitful results, we have something to be grateful for and share with others.
Sometimes We Have to Wait
In a world where instant results are expected, it’s hard to wait for anything. But sometimes, what we do today may be simply preparing for tomorrow, providing for others, or laying up treasure in heaven. (Matthew 6:20-21)
Sometimes We Have to Try Again
Inevitably we try and fail. It happens. We have to pick up the pieces, count our losses, learn from the experience, and try again.
Take gardening for instance, where I’m still learning and failing. This year the abundance of rain ruined my tomato crop and caused all my flowers to fade or fall off. There are things I can change and improve. Next year I will do just that.
Sometimes We Get to Share
Some years we reap in abundance and are able to share the blessings with people in need. At other times, we plant seeds in people’s hearts about God and another person reaps that harvest. Sometimes we give and sometimes we receive.
“I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour:
other men labored, and ye are entered into their labours.” John 4:38
Sharing is a great way to meet people or needs and the outreach opportunities are endless. Have fun with it:
- Decorate baskets to carry the produce
- Attach a recipe that uses the items you’re sharing
- Get family involved in making deliveries
- Prepare meals for struggling families, the sick or shut-in
- Invite people over for a “dinner from the garden” night
Not everyone can garden or finds it relaxing and enjoyable. If you’re one of those fortunate people with a green thumb, you’ve probably learned that sharing your harvest is a rewarding experience.
God wants us to share Him and our blessings with the world and He provides for us, or sends others to help when we feel we have nothing to offer. Share what you can and wait for the harvest.
“And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal:
that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.” John 4:36
Bring It Home
Has God blessed you with something to share this season?
Praying for you as we grow together,
Smiles, BRC
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