Daily Devotional

"Those who sow with tears
will reap with songs of joy.
⁶ Those who go out weeping,
carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy,
carrying sheaves with them."
Psalm 126:5-6

The "law of sowing" or the planting rule is a concept that is covered a lot throughout the Bible. Jesus taught several parables about the sower, types of soil and seeds (like the mustard seed, for example). Paul also said (in Galatians 6:7) that "A man reaps what he sows.". From these and other references, we can see that, in all areas of life, we reap what we sow.

Today's psalm tells us about a different aspect of planting. It's the only place in the Bible where a different kind of harvest is mentioned to the one of planting. The law of sowing here is wrapped up in the grace and mercy of the Lord who sustains all things! God grants those who sow with tears (humility, trust and contrition) to reap their sheaves full of joy (happiness, contentment and satisfaction)! Entrust your seed to Jesus who can transform a small seed into many sheaves. He can also turn your weeping into joy!

Even with tears and difficulties, sow your seed:

• Planting is related to trust. Give your plans to the Lord and trust that He will do everything.
• Pray to God constantly, and ask Him to sustain and direct you in all your life's purposes.
• God gives birth and growth, but you have to plant! Work hard and be cheerful!
• After sowing with faith, pray and wait patiently on the Lord.
• Ask God for guidance so that you will always bear good fruit, through the action of His Spirit in your life.
• The Word of God is the Good Seed. Share the Gospel with others around you.

Pray:

Lord, help me to plant seeds with faith and hope in you. May I trust that You sustain all things and that You sustain my life, my family, and all my dreams. Even when I'm weary, tired or beaten down by the wear and tear of life or the strain of work, may I continue to plant good seeds. May these seeds produce good fruit that will remain, for the blessing of many and your glory, in Jesus' name! Amen.

"God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble."
Psalm 46:1

In times of adversity, our faith is put to the test, how we respond shows where we place our strength and refuge. The Bible is full of faithful people who faced adversity, such as Jeremiah (the 'weeping prophet') and Job, the trials they faced pushed them out of their comfort zone to a place where all their feelings and resources were at their absolute limit. In moments of anguish such as these, it is all too easy to lose clarity and direction. With God as your refuge, you can cope with even the most extreme anguish.

God is always with us, in good times and bad. He never abandons us! The feeling of fear may arise but we should never forget that He is always with us. Cry out to God in prayer, and ask for His provision.

We can also find refuge in His Word (Psalm 119:114, "You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word."). The Bible is a great relief in times of adversity. God is faithful to keep all his promises, so stand firm and trust in the Lord!

He is there!

• God is always present. Seek his presence in prayer.
• The Holy Spirit comforts us and gives us direction.
• Seek refuge in God's Word. The Bible is a great way to reconnect with God.

Pray:

Lord, I know that in the midst of difficulties you are with me. Keep me according to Your Word and guide me towards Your promises. I trust in you and know that you are with me always! Amen