Whether you’re familiar with the Bible or not you’ve probably heard the expression “You reap what you sow,” or some kind of equivalent. On the surface, it seems like an easy concept. Karma says that if you live a good life your next life will be good. Financially speaking, you’re instructed to put money into stocks or business endeavors in order to increase your wealth. 2 Corinthians 9:6 says, “The point is this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously.” (CSB)
Many who quote this verse often miss the first part, which is – I think – the most critical part of the verse. The point to what? In this portion of the letter, Paul is telling the saints of Achaia that the Christians at Macedonia have just persevered through some hard times because of the faith they heard the people of Macedonia have. Paul’s testament of Achaia’s faith is what kept Macedonia going! What you sow and what you reap sets an example for others who are in similar situations; somebody is always watching you.
Sowing and reaping isn’t just something as simple as planting seeds and waiting for the harvest. You need to know what (if anything) will grow in the area you’re planting. You need to know how far apart the seeds need to be so that the plants aren’t too far apart that they lack support, or too close together that some hoard all the nutrients. You need to prepare your crops for the worst-case scenario.
God wants you to sow your faith into His Word so that you will be blessed, and so that others will be inspired by your growth.