Galatians 6:7-16 (NRSV)
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Verse 7Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. Verse 8If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. Verse 9So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest-time, if we do not give up. Verse 10So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith.
Verse 11See what large letters I make when I am writing in my own hand! Verse 12It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that try to compel you to be circumcised-only that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. Verse 13Even the circumcised do not themselves obey the law, but they want you to be circumcised so that they may boast about your flesh. Verse 14May I never boast of anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Verse 15For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is anything; but a new creation is everything! Verse 16As for those who will follow this rule-peace be upon them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.
Devotion
Sowing seeds is a small part of what is needed to reap a bountiful harvest. Good soil in which the plants can sink their roots is needed, as is a steady rain. The crops need fertilizer and nutrients. Herbicide is applied to protect the crops. The plants cannot come to full maturity without sunlight, and a gentle breeze to carry the spores for germination.
God has provided all that is necessary for a bountiful spiritual harvest: the daily sprinkling of baptism; the rushing wind of the Holy Spirit; the nourishment of the Lord's Supper; the community of faith that keeps us safe; the light of God's countenance that shines upon us, and the word of scripture that provides a strong foundation.
Prayer
Lord of sowing and reaping, thank you for farm families, and for providing all that is needed to help us grow spiritually.