As a proud and life-long member of “Generation X,” I grew up during the 1970s and 80s. My generation was known for being “latch key kids” and our summer breaks were characterized by bike-riding with our friends all day long until the streetlights came on.
My generation also became well-acquainted with the wisdom of our mothers and other elders through maxims and pithy proverbs told to us as a method of curbing foolish behavior or unruly intentions. For example, “don’t count your chickens before they hatch" was a common adage. Others included “curiosity killed the cat,” “the early bird catches the worm,” “out of the frying pan and into the fire,” and “you reap what you sow.”
Each of these sayings are small packages of common sense that are good for anyone to utilize in skillful living. However, only one of these axioms was drawn directly from the Bible. For us Gen-Xers, we were often told “you reap what you sow” but generally in a negative or punitive context. As an example, a well-meaning adult might’ve used this maxim regarding the consequences of kids stealing from the grocery store or cheating on a test. Nevertheless, it is unfortunate that my peers and I were never told this proverb in its proper context.
Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow...
In Galatians 6:7-8, the Apostle Paul states, “do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” Paul
goes on to tell us in verse 10, “therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers (NIV).
What a game-changer! The Apostle Paul lays out for us the entirety of this saying within its proper light. He makes it clear it is not possible to fool, trick, deceive, or hustle the Almighty, All-Knowing God of this universe. But this road runs both directions: God sees the good people do as well as the evil and is poised to address each kind of behavior accordingly. Nothing escapes His attention and His ability to reward accordingly; if not in this life, then in the life to come.
Boy, I wish someone had explained that to me when I was young. I’m so glad Paul laid it all out for us.
Our God is a loving, compassionate, and patient God that is quick to both forgive and to give graciously. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Anointed One, embodies these divine ideals perfectly. What a remarkable and amazing God we serve! "He exalts the humble and humbles the proud" (Luke 14:11). We can put our trust in Him, from generation to generation.
For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Dear precious and wondrous Lord, thank you for the love you have lavished on us. You have
given us grace far beyond what we have ever deserved, and Your mercies are new every morning. Please continue to grant us your peace, even in the midst of the turbulent storms of life. We trust You and look forward to an eternity with You in Your Kingdom to come. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.
About the author
Keith Tatum
Keith Tatum has over 25 years of experience with the public and nonprofit sectors, including journalism and university teaching. He is currently pursuing a M.A. in Theology & Social Justice at Northeastern Seminary and ultimately plans to pursue a Doctor of Ministry as well. He's also a deacon.