“Consequence” is not a happy word. It has implications. It suggests an unwanted future. It is a result of actions which are likely unwelcome. Consequence is also certain. Some actions bring certain results whether we desire them or not. A criminal will face the long arm of the law. A spendthrift will have to pay the fiddler. The fat lady will sing. We will reap what we sow.
“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap” (Galatians 6:6)
Consequences in our lives are as certain as the rising of the sun. They happen. Happily, we usually have control over those results. In fact, we can make this law work in our favor. Consider the next verse in Galatians 6:7:
“For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap, but the one who sows to the Spirit will, from the Spirit, reap eternal life.”
Do not overlook the second part of verse seven. When our sowing is good, goodness follows!
Several principles follow:
- What we do today determines where we are tomorrow. This is largely a common-sense law that we forget. Where you are today was determined by past actions. Are you a skilled craftsman? Then you learned your trade over years and years. Are you a scholar? You trained for years in academia. Are you an athlete? Then you spend hour upon hour in training. Likewise, the things you are today will have a direct and undeniable influence on your future life.
- The future can change. If a person is unsatisfied with his direction in life, he can change it. Is your health poor? Fix it! Overweight? Eat less and exercise more.
- I can make the future great. Maybe it’s a bit worn, but where do you want to be in 5 years? You can design the perfect life today.
- I can make the future miserable. Whining, complaining, playing the victim, and other such actions only extend your present problems. Failure to act now will only extend your unhappiness.
- Excuses are irrelevant. This may be the hidden gem in these principles. We’ve become so accustomed to finding an excuse for everything we do not wish to do that we have fooled ourselves into believing our own You don’t attend worship? Why not? How’s that excuse going to sound in judgment? You’re weak and out of shape because you just don’t have time to exercise? Ok, will that lessen the disease that will ravage your body later?
- The end is coming. There is a time when our work here is done. Our preparation will be over and we will face either blessing or consequence. It is appointed for man to die and afterward comes eternal judgment (Hebrews 9:27).
The future is yours, but to change it requires hard work and dedication. Let us have a passion for the future. Where do you want to be in a year, five years, or more? The process of change begins now.
Follow Preacher's Study Blog on Twitter @Preachers_Study.
On Facebook, please like us at Preacher's Study Blog.
Contact Bryant directly by email at [email protected]
{ 0 comments }
