Verse of the day
Galatians 6:9 - So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.
Let's face it. It's much easier to do something for ourselves or nothing at all than to do good for others. Doing good often takes sacrifice of time, effort and/or money. It can also be downright difficult if we're trying to do good to others that don't appreciate it or are hard to love.
The flip side is that doing good builds a harvest of blessing. One that we will reap if we don't give up. These blessings can be in the form of unspeakable joy that we experience as we do good. Or it might be healing we experience. Unexpected provision or God's hand guiding us in the right direction. Whatever the blessing, it can be reaped through doing good to others.
But there are times when we get tired. Weary. We try to do good, but nothing changes. Our struggles continue and there is no relief. Or we hoped that by doing good to others it may have set an example, but alas our good deeds have fallen on deaf ears. It can feel disappointing, hopeless and frustrating.
But God takes note of our perserverance. By not giving up and being faithful in doing good, God awaits His perfect time to shower us with His blessings. But I believe far too often we give up too early.
We live in a time of instant results. I want my food now and hot. I want to buy now and pay later. I don't want to wait for my app to download. I hate waiting to be served.
It reminds me of a song I heard on TV from the band Queen. The lyrics go like this:
I want it all (yes I want it all)
I want it all hey
I want it all and I want it now
We want EVERYTHING and we want it NOW. But, we need to have the mindset of a farmer or gardener. Not only do we plant seeds of faith to grow and mature in others, but we also plant seeds of blessings for ourselves. These seeds take time to grow and bear fruit. We need to be patient. As they grow, we need to take care of them.
We need to persevere and keep on doing good in the tough times. Even when we're broke, tired, cranky or feeling selfish. If we give up, we may miss out on God's blessings.
May we be reminded that, even if doing good can be hard work, it's most definitely worth it in the long run.
Heavenly Father, Give me the strength to press on doing good for others even in the toughest times. I've seen and experienced your blessings when I faithfully perservere. Thank you for your many blessings and all that you provide.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
