Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! – Psalm 126:5
When the farmer plants his seeds, he knows how long he must wait for harvest time. Each crop has a different schedule from planting to reaping, and each needs different conditions, such as how much water and sun are needed. The harvest is the goal, but the time between requires patience.
Waiting is often necessary in life. God generally uses these times to develop character and a closer reliance on Him. It is human to want answers right away, but things can turn out much better when you wait. The apostle James wrote, “See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand” (5:7-8).
The farmer would not plant if he did not believe that the harvest was coming. There will be seasons of spring and autumn rains before the results of your patience will be experienced. While you don’t know the conditions God will put your faith through, endure for the blessings will come!
Ask that the prayers of the faithful people waiting for God to bring restoration will water the United States during what seems to be a spiritual drought of rebellion. Pray that the Lord will bless the seeds planted by His children and bring a harvest of love, justice, and goodness.
Today’s Verse: Psalm 126:5
Those who sow in tears
shall reap with shouts of joy!
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: James 5:7-12
7 Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. 8 You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. 9 Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. 10 As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.
12 But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
