Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. Psalm 126:5–6 (NKJV)
A few years after Sally & I were married, I was working as a paramedic while Sally stayed home with our first two kids. There wasn’t much money coming in, but inside of us was a desire to give. We made a decision that even to our own disadvantage, we would continue to be generous with what we had.
Generosity can be hard. Sometimes giving hurts so much it puts a tear in your eye. But today’s verse promises that those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. Of course, we are called to be wise with our resources and to look after ourselves and our families. At the same time, if we are serving Jesus, we are also called to be generous, and we can find ways (within our means) to fulfill this calling.
When it’s hard to give, we need to remember that we’re planting seeds and looking forward to a harvest that’s coming. Our generosity is equipping the saints and raising the next generation of believers to be on fire for God. There is a purpose behind what God has given us. We’re blessed in order to be a blessing!
In 2 Corinthians 9:6, it says that those who plant only a few seeds will get a small crop, but those who plant generously will also reap generously. A farmer plants seed and expects a harvest. In the same way, we can give our time and resources expecting a harvest of God’s goodness in our lives.
Make the decision to live generously and further God’s Kingdom! Watch and see what He will do through you.