The other day, I read something quite profound online; at least, it was to me. Here is what I read.
We are not to make false statements about anyone’s character or actions. We are to speak about all people in a fair and just manner. Sadly, I have ministered to many people who choose to make critical judgments toward others. This causes a great mental battle that they must overcome.
Why is this?
Because the open door of critical judgment toward others becomes a magnet that attracts critical and tormenting thoughts in the mind of the one being critical, what you sow in judgment, you will reap in unrest. (Becca Greenwood)
I recommend you do as I did and read that statement a few times, very slowly, and let it sink in.
Galatians 6:7-8 says; Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.
The Amplified Bible says it like this; Do not be deceived and deluded and misled; God will not allow Himself to be sneered at (scorned, disdained, or mocked by mere pretensions or professions, or by His precepts being set aside.) [He inevitably deludes himself who attempts to delude God.] For whatever a man sows, that and [b]that only is what he will reap. For he who sows to his own flesh (lower nature, sensuality) will from the flesh reap decay and ruin and destruction, but he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.
The concept of sowing and reaping is something that resonates deeply with most people. It’s a fundamental truth that transcends cultures and beliefs; even those who do not identify as Christians recognize its logic. Picture a farmer standing in a sun-drenched field, carefully planting rows of golden corn seeds into the rich, dark soil. As the seasons change and the sun nourishes those seeds with warmth and light, the promise of a bountiful harvest unfolds. The farmer knows instinctively that from these seeds, vibrant stalks of corn will rise, swaying gently in the breeze. He understands that if he were to sow bean seeds instead, it would yield an entirely different crop, one that would not match his intentions. This natural law of cause and effect is as sure as the sun rising each day: what you plant is what you will ultimately gather.
This principle resonates not only in the tangible world but also within the spiritual realm. If we persistently cultivate seeds of anger, we can expect to harvest a bitter crop devoid of kindness. Conversely, if we earnestly plant the nourishing seeds of the Word of God deep within our hearts, we will eventually reap a bountiful harvest of His promises and a serene peace, all unfolding in His perfect timing.
What often escapes our notice is that when we plant seeds of criticism and judgment, we may unwittingly harvest a whirlwind of turmoil within our minds, restless thoughts, and even a disquiet that resonates in our bodies. If this holds true—and I truly believe it does—one must ponder: is the price of such a harvest really worth paying?
After absorbing the profound statement above, I reflected deeply on its truth. It stirred a moment of introspection, prompting me to gaze into the depths of my heart and confront any lingering critical or judgmental thoughts that resided within. With a touch of humility, I must confess that I have often allowed a critical lens to cloud my perception, casting unkind shadows over my neighbors, family members, and, at times, even myself. This should not be so.
I genuinely wish to avoid unrest in my mind, thoughts, or body. For this reason, I have repented of any critical thoughts and asked the Holy Spirit to guard my heart, ensuring that I do not become critical or judgmental in the future. It is my heartfelt desire to reap only good things—only things of God—so I must sow in a manner that is conducive to that type of harvest.
Dear friend, I invite you to delve deep into the recesses of your heart, reflecting on this profound insight. Cast aside any thoughts or words that are tinged with criticism or judgment. Instead, nurture only the seeds that resonate with the vibrant harvest you yearn to gather. It is our heartfelt prayer that you cultivate an extraordinary bounty, one that springs forth from the God of all good and perfect gifts. May this season bring forth a flourishing harvest that exceeds your wildest dreams and reflects the abundance of God’s blessings.
