07
Sowing into Sinners lives!
Rod ShimabukuroDo not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Galatians 6:7-8
The story line involves doing good, restoration, helping others. In the surrounding theme of verse 7, Paul instructs Christians to: “Carry your load but help others. Doing good especially to the family of God. Restore sinners gently. Watch your pride and don’t deceive yourself - as if you are better than, greater than...Carry each others burden’s - fulfill the law of Christ.”
The sowing of v. 7-8 involves doing good, sowing into the family of God, serving and helping to restore sinners. Not necessarily how we preachers sometimes use this passage - around the idea of giving money, being generous with our resources, provision of material goods. I’m sure we can apply v. 7-8 this way - but the strength of the this passage communicates the importance of people: serving, helping, restoring people to Jesus - in right relationship with God.
My action: Help those in need to repair their spiritual lives. Not just to apply this verse personally as if I need to “sow financially, materially into the lives of others.” Comparing, judging, turning my back on others - not helping to bear burdens, will be a burden on my shoulders. The weight of conviction is what I pray for - for the Lord to lead me to sow into hearts and lives of others who are being restored. I must be watchful of my pride and ability to neglect others due to my self centeredness, selfish ways.
WHEW!!! Dear God!!! Have mercy on Me!!! Please!!! Oh God...I’m so self absorbed at times - I get short fused, impatient...internally! Help me to be and live with a pure heart...BY YOUR GRACE AND HELP! Help me not to wear masks of fake love, care and concern.
