Seeds in Rocky Places

A farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide … how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.

2 Corinthians 9:6-7 NLT

Corinth, Greece, is in a rocky, mountainous area, where most land is not suitable for farming. Only about 30 percent of the area can be used to grow things.

When reading how Paul encouraged sowing seeds, we might picture the potential of vast acres of grain, like cornfields in the American Midwest. But farming was difficult for the Corinthians.

Paul’s encouragement to sow “bountifully” (NKJV) may have seemed like a real challenge or even impractical advice. But Paul knew that even and especially in hostile conditions, God’s principles still are true.

If these principles were true in a rocky place like Corinth, they certainly are true for you today. You might think of many reasons not to sow seeds, and the reasons may seem valid. Conditions may not seem favorable. Obstacles may seem overwhelming. It may seem impossible for anything to grow. You may want to focus on practical needs.

Yet God’s principles always are true in every condition. We are urged to be aggressive in sowing seeds with our time, talents, and treasures. As we do, He promises that we will reap a bountiful harvest.

Keep sowing seeds, no matter how rocky the soil might appear or how unlikely results might seem. Don’t give up or assume that God’s command to sow is only for other people. Have faith that God will multiply your seeds into a harvest of blessings.

Prayer

Father, I will sow seeds from the resources You give me. Show me where to sow. I believe You for an abundant harvest. In Jesus’ name, amen.