Encouragement In Service

Galatians 6:9 provides words of encouragement for the servant of Christ, and a significant promise. It says, “Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” The first and last parts of the verse give us the negative, the interior of the verse reflects the positive. “Do not become weary (discouraged, disheartened); do not lose heart (give up, quit). Instead, keep on doing good, serving the Lord, because there will be a time of harvest in due season (at the proper time).”

There is weariness and discouragement in Christian service. Sometimes it is because we seem to see little fruit. But it may also be for less noble reasons. That we grow impatient with people who show less spiritual insight than we imagine we do. Or because our efforts and gifts are not appreciated as we think they should be.

First, we would do well to examine our hearts for unrealistic expectations or selfish motivations. But if our hearts are in tune with God’s heart, there is still possible weariness and discouragement. It is to be expected in the service of weak creatures as we are. But we must see that we do not give up and quit. Faithful service will have its reward in the end. The harvest comes at the proper time (cf. I Cor. 15:58; II Thess. 3:13; Jas. 5:7). As there is a natural progression from sowing to reaping, there is a natural tendency to slip from discouragement to despair. But if we are doing God’s work, we can continue to count on Him.

I. The Peril of Today

1. That we will grow weary (serving faithfully is hard work)
2. That we will lose heart and become discouraged
3. (Implied) that we will cease doing what is good and right

II. The Promise of Tomorrow

1. That there is a due season of harvest (cf. vs. 7)
2. That we shall reap (spiritual fruit and eternal rewards)
3. (Implied) that we can finish well, by God’s grace (vs. 10; cf. I Cor. 15:58)