Scripture
5 Those who sow with tears
will reap with songs of joy.
6 Those who go out weeping,
carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy,
carrying sheaves with them.
Reflection
Yesterday we read, how the author encouraged Israel that God has not forgotten about them in the midst of their captivity in Babylon. In today’s passage we read a response in reference to Israel’s deliverance and return out of Babylon. This psalm is not only speaking about the physical return out of captivity from Babylon, but it also points towards the spiritual return out of captivity from sin. The author parallels both these two themes along side each other, to indicate 1) those who have returned out of captivity are called to be thankful (Ps. 126:1-3) and 2) those Israelites who have yet to return from captivity are prayed for (v.4) and are encouraged (vv.5-6).
What we can learn from this passage is 1) to be thankful for Christ’s redemption in our lives 2) to continue to pray for and to encourage those who are not yet believers, and or those who are believers who find themselves in a difficult place to keep faith and hope in the One who saves us (Con).
Thoughts for the day
- In which category do you find yourself currently (1, 2 or both?) and what should your response be?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Think of someone you know who could use a little joy in their lives and pray for presence of the Lord to rest on them. “In His presence there is fullness of Joy” Psalm 16:11.
