Target!

Target!

They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
Psalms 126:5 KJV

Putting today's extract in the right context, it is important to consider that this was written as an appreciation of God's restoration for his people after they had sinned. God had punished sin, but He had also shown mercy by restoring the fortunes of His people. It needs emphasising that sin always carries a heavy penalty. It doesn't matter in whom it is found; God has no favourite when it comes to sin and He will always punish sin.

There is a target audience, a target activity and a target attitude that will lead to a target result: 'those who sow in tears'; people with a clear understanding of their limitation and who know they need help outside of themselves. They come to God in full awareness of who they are and have done in the past, seeking help to live right going forward. They come with broken and contrite hearts, the kind God says He will not ignore. They come sowing, knowing that the God they seek is the One who guarantees a plentiful harvest.

The target result is a bountiful harvest. However it manifests, it will be obvious that the one who sowed has encountered God and his/her deepest needs have been met. If there is no sowing, no sincere repentance, no desire for change, no sorrow for sin, why would you demand any harvest of joy from God? If I will get the full measure of God's grace, I must seek Him on His own terms. Hia grace is available; full and free, until it is withdrawn. His time of favour is here.