MEMORISE: Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:18
BIBLE READING: Psalm 126:1-5
1 When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.
2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.
3 The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.
4 Turn again our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the south.
5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
MESSAGE:
Sowing in righteousness simply means doing things that are right before God, even when it is not convenient. It may involve letting go of your rights for peace to reign, showing kindness to someone who doesn’t seem to deserve it because of their bad character, and speaking the truth always, regardless of how you may be perceived. It is a great responsibility that will create an atmosphere of peace around you and bring forth a harvest of godly rewards.
Today’s Bible reading explains that sowing in righteousness may sometimes be difficult or require sacrifice, but the rewards are always worth it. In Genesis 39, we see how Joseph chose to sow righteousness by refusing to commit fornication with Potiphar’s wife, and as a result, he was falsely accused and imprisoned. Though he suffered for years, at God’s appointed time, he was exalted and placed in a position of power. Joseph remained focused on God, and he fulfilled his divine assignment.
My dear child, life will present temptations to you, but you must sow in righteousness by not compromising your faith during hardship and remain faithful to God like Joseph.
KEY POINT:
A life that sows in righteousness will yield great harvests.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
MARK 3:1-21, NUMBERS 1-2