The Law of the Sower: Galatians 6:7-10
“7) Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. 8) 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. 9) Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. 10) 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.” Galatians 6:7-10
In this text Paul applies the Law of the Sower to the deeds of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit. He basically says, “What you sow in morals and attitudes you reap in life!” There is no getting around this principle. It is equal for all people in every social group and economic status.
Verse 8 is extremely clear. If you sow to your flesh you will reap corruption and consequences in your life. The Old Testament is full of stories of this universal principle. It is true for individuals and nations. It is true for the rich and the poor. It is true for common people and political leaders. Your personal morals will shape your life circumstances.
It is equally true that those who sow to the Spirit reap amazing blessings and eternal life. As Hebrews 11:6 says, “… God rewards those who seek Him.” God abundantly blesses those who live for Him and keep His ways.
This text was foundational to my personal journey to freedom and has significantly shaped my life philosophy. I learned very early as a Christian that if I wanted my life circumstances to change, I first needed to change the seed I was sowing. It takes time to produce a crop, but you can start changing your seed immediately.
It is true that changing destiny takes time but changing direction can happen immediately. The Law of the Sower also has a compounding affect. Abundant sowing consistently over time produces incredible results.
The Law of the Sower can be applied to every area of life. It is true for your spiritual life, physical fitness, mental well-being, relationships and finances. What you do consistently on a daily, weekly and monthly basis will determine your future.
Verse 9 is a great summary; “And let us not loose heart in doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not grow weary.” The Law of the Sower says, “You reap what you sow in life.” It also says, “You reap as you sow in life.” (See 2 Corinthians 9:6) If it’s worth doing, do it big! Don’t plant a small garden of good seed when you plant a huge field.
It is from the backdrop of the Law of the Sower that we can tackle the subject of the negative consequences of bad habits and the positive results of good disciplines. Understanding this Law produces huge personal motivation. It gives the promise of monumental change in life and the wisdom to accomplish that change.
Simply identify the area you want to change and start sowing different seed in that area. You are not a slave to fate, chance, your addictions, bad habits or bad karma. God has given you the power to change. This is rooted in the Law of the Sower.
Observing life and people through the lens of the Law of the Sower has given me deep fear and reverence for God. There may be a few bumps in life from unexpected events like accidents, natural disasters or the actions of the wicked; but overall the Law of the Sower is the most influential force in life because it is rooted in the character and nature of God. I will leave you to think that through on your own.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global