Some use the word “karma” saying, “You got what you deserved.” Maybe

they did, but I don’t like using karma because it is a term that refers to the Hindu or Buddhist concept of reaping in this life from your deeds in previous lives. That requires reincarnation, and reincarnation is a false belief. The truth is that we are appointed to live once, die once, and then face eternal judgment. The dead don’t

come back.

    Others might say, “What goes around comes around.” This is a common saying that implies there is a circular pattern, a cause and effect to your life. While there is some truth to this slogan, it misses the mark. Why? Because it leaves out any power that might be enforcing this rule. Will an impersonal universe stalk you to make sure payback happens? No. But if the Creator of the universe is watching, yes!

    But there is another term that I do know is true. I firmly believe in it. It is the biblical principle called “sowing and reaping.” Sowing is the word used for a farmer planting seed in a field. Reaping is the word for gathering in the fruit of the seed after it is ripe and ready to harvest. No sowing? Then there will be no reaping.

    This principle works because of two things: 1) God has built into this universe a law of cause and effect that we can tap into, if we have the faith. 2) God is absolutely just in his dealings with all human beings because he is a faithful, fair father.

    Sowing refers to things you practice over time. It isn’t just one seed, but many, over a period of time. Reaping refers to the inevitable results of sowing. However, there is always a period of time that has to pass between the sowing and the reaping. Another fact to know is this: you always get back more than you planted: 30-fold, 60-fold, or 100-fold. If you plant one corn kernel, the stalk and ears

and rows of seed multiply.

    While many preachers teach about planting seed in regard to giving, the principle is much bigger than that. The Bible cautions us to sow to the Spirit, not to the flesh. We also sow kindness, faith, and love with our words. And of course, giving is included.

    One key verse on sowing is in Luke 6:38. Do you know what is the single biggest thing you can give away? Forgiveness! If you manage to forgive those who hurt you, you stand to receive the same thing many times over in your life. Forgiveness is an act of pure grace. It displays undeserved mercy to another person. This is the same kind of love the Father shows to us in Christ Jesus- undeserved favor at his expense.

    By the way … the dead do come back, but only if they are believers in Jesus. Then they get resurrected with immortal bodies when Jesus returns as King.

Ron Wood is a pastor and writer. Contact him at wood.stone.ron@gmail.com.