Spiritual Investment

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: October 20, 2024

Scripture: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh, will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit, will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:7-9 (NIV)

Devotional Thoughts

In life, people understand the value of investment. We plant seeds to reap a harvest, invest resources to gain returns and give of our time and energy with the hope of future rewards. What’s remarkable is that this principle is not just limited to the physical realm; it also applies to the spiritual.

When you sow spiritually—by dedicating time to study the scriptures, fasting, praying, and serving others—you are making spiritual investments. These investments may not bring an immediate return, but they will yield fruit at the right time. Just as a farmer patiently waits for the seed to grow and the crops to mature, so too must we trust the process of spiritual growth and harvest. Every prayer whispered, every act of kindness, every moment spent in God’s Word, and every step in obedience contributes to a bountiful harvest in due season.

I remember visiting my grandmother unexpectedly one afternoon, and to my surprise, I found her on her knees, praying fervently for me to be used by God. At that time, I didn’t fully grasp the power of her prayers or the investment she was making in my life. Today, I see the fruits of her intercession. The prayers she sowed long ago are now bearing fruit in my life as I walk in the purpose God has set before me. Her spiritual investment continues to grow and multiply in ways neither of us could have imagined.

In the same way, your spiritual investments—whether in your personal walk or in the lives of others—will bring an increase far greater than what you initially sowed. God promises that if we sow to please the Spirit, we will reap eternal life. This harvest is not just for us but for future generations and for the expansion of God’s kingdom.

Practical Reflection

• Consider how you are investing spiritually. Are you spending time in prayer, studying God’s Word, and serving others with the expectation of a future return? Just as a farmer carefully tends to the seeds he plants, we must nurture our spiritual investments. It may take time, but the harvest is guaranteed. Perhaps you are sowing seeds of prayer for a loved one, much like my grandmother did for me. Remember that your prayers have power beyond what you can see, and in due time, they will bear fruit.

• Additionally, think about how your actions today are investments in your spiritual future. The time you spend reading scripture, attending church, or serving in your community may seem small, but it will lead to growth and increase in your life. Trust God with the timing and the harvest.

Closing Thoughts

Spiritual investments are a journey of faith and trust. The seeds you plant today in prayer, scripture, service, and obedience will grow, even if you don’t see immediate results. God is faithful, and He will multiply your efforts, bringing forth a harvest far greater than what you could imagine. Just as my grandmother's prayers for me continue to yield fruit, know that your spiritual investments will impact not only your life but the lives of those around you and the generations to come.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the principle of sowing and reaping, both in the natural and spiritual realms. Help me to be faithful in making spiritual investments through prayer, studying Your Word, and serving others. Teach me to trust in Your timing and believe that the seeds I plant today will bring forth a bountiful harvest in due season. Strengthen me when I grow weary, and remind me of Your promises, knowing that my labour in the Lord is never in vain. Amen.