Doing Good consistently. Galatians 6:9-10.
Dear Pilgrims and Sojourners,
We saw in the previous passage that attitude is what matters when we do things for others. To conclude this discussion on sowing and reaping, we look at the appeal to be persistent in doing good.
Resilience (v. 9a). Doing good can be draining, especially when the beneficiaries are ungrateful or they take advantage both of which happen too often for comfort. Doing good undeserving people who consider it their right to receive charity is a great demotivator. But let us not forget that we do it for the Lord, not for men (Colossians 3:23).
Reaping (v. 9b). There is a harvest awaiting those who serve the Lord faithfully. That harvest will come “in due season.” God is not a conveyor belt that has timed functions. It may take many days before the bread that we cast out returns to us (Ecclesiastes 11:1), but it will return. It is important to note, also, that God does not necessarily repay us in kind. He gives us what is best for us. You may give God money but he may give you a wife instead. Or you may give of your time and he may reward you with a scholarship. As I have said before, elsewhere, do not try to practice double-entry accounting with God.
Reflexing (v. 10). If eternal goodies alone are not enough, though they should be, the added promise of rewards here on earth should be motivation enough to go out and do good to all humanity. One of the tragedies of our modern world is that there are few Christian philanthropists, compared to Hindus, for instance. One of the most generous people of the twenty-first century is an agnostic, possibly even, an atheist. Are we so attached to material wealth? But we should not just do good in general, and we should, but our emphasis should be on helping those who are of like faith with us.
This may sound partial and selfish, but one’s immediate family must always be one’s primary concern. Fellow believers are our spiritual next-of-kin and need to be recognized as such. It will be evidence of our common heritage in Christ (John 13:34-35).
So, keep serving and giving. Do not tire and do not go sit on your front porch every day after doing good, waiting for your phone to chirp with a message of a cash gift. All in due season.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.