Don’t
be deceived. God is not mocked, for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
Galatians 6:7
Galatians 6 [5.] For each man will bear his own burden. But let him who is taught in the word share all good things with him who teaches. Don’t be deceived. God is not mocked, for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption. But he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. Let us not be weary in doing good, for we will reap in due season, if we don’t give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let’s do what is good toward all men, and especially toward those who are of the household of the faith.
Meaning:
- Warning Against Deception:
The verse begins with a solemn admonition: "Do not be deceived." This serves as a cautionary reminder to the readers not to underestimate the seriousness of their actions or to delude themselves into thinking that they can manipulate or deceive God. It underscores the importance of discernment and wisdom in how we conduct our lives.
- Divine Sovereignty:
The phrase "God is not mocked" asserts God's sovereignty and authority over all aspects of life. It communicates the idea that God cannot be fooled or deceived by human behavior. He sees and knows all things, and He will hold each person accountable for their actions (Hebrews 4:13).
- Principle of Sowing and Reaping:
The core message of the verse revolves around the principle of sowing and reaping. Just as a farmer sows seeds in the ground and later reaps a harvest, so too do our actions produce consequences. Our choices and behavior have repercussions, and we will inevitably experience the results of what we have sown (Job 4:8; Hosea 8:7).
- Personal Responsibility:
This verse emphasizes personal responsibility for our actions. Each individual is responsible for the seeds they sow, whether good or bad. We cannot escape the consequences of our choices, and we must take ownership of our behavior and its outcomes (Romans 14:12).
- Spiritual and Moral Law:
While the principle of sowing and reaping applies to various aspects of life, it also has spiritual and moral implications. Our spiritual condition and moral character are shaped by the seeds we sow in our hearts and lives. If we sow to the flesh, we will reap corruption, but if we sow to the Spirit, we will reap eternal life (Galatians 6:8).
Cross References:
Hebrews 4:13: "There is no creature that is hidden from his sight, but all things are naked and laid open before the eyes of him with whom we have to do." (Hebrews 4:13) This verse reinforces the idea that God sees and knows all things, including our actions and motives.
Hosea 8:7: "For they sow the wind, and they will reap the whirlwind. He has no standing grain. The stalk will yield no head. If it does yield, strangers will swallow it up." (Hosea 8:7) Hosea uses agricultural imagery to illustrate the principle of sowing and reaping, emphasizing the destructive consequences of sowing wickedness.
In summary, Galatians 6:7 presents a sobering reality check about the principle of sowing and reaping. It reminds us of the importance of our choices and actions, urging us to sow seeds of righteousness and godliness rather than seeds of sin and disobedience. As we navigate life, may we be mindful of the seeds we sow, knowing that we will inevitably reap what we have sown.
See also: vs 8
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible