Galatians 6 9

Galatians 6:9 kjv

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Galatians 6:9 nkjv

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Galatians 6:9 niv

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 6:9 esv

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.

Galatians 6:9 nlt

So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.

Galatians 6 verses

Galatians 6 9 Meaning

Let us not become weary or disheartened in doing good, for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Galatians 6 9 Context

Galatians chapter 6 continues Paul's concluding remarks to the church in Galatia. This letter addresses a critical theological issue: the tension between salvation by grace through faith in Christ alone and the insistence of some Jewish believers that Gentile converts must adhere to the Law of Moses, including circumcision. Paul passionately argues against this Judaizing influence, emphasizing the freedom and spiritual maturity available through the Holy Spirit. Chapter 6 transitions to practical application of these truths, focusing on how believers are to live in community and navigate the challenges of Christian life. Verse 9 specifically falls within Paul's encouragement for sustained effort in doing good, particularly towards fellow believers and in living out the implications of the gospel, while guarding against the discouragement that can arise from the difficulty of the task or the lack of immediate visible results.

Galatians 6 9 Word Analysis

• "Let us": Implies a communal call to action and shared experience among believers, suggesting that Paul includes himself in this exhortation.

• "not be weary": (Greek: enkakōmen) - This Greek verb conveys the idea of growing tired, becoming faint, giving up, or doing something ineffectually. It speaks to a weariness that leads to a cessation of effort.

• "in doing good": (Greek: kalopoiountes) - This present participle describes the ongoing action of performing good deeds, acts that are morally excellent and pleasing to God. It encompasses both outward actions and an inner disposition.

• "for": (Greek: gar) - This conjunction indicates a reason or explanation for the preceding exhortation.

• "at the proper time": (Greek: en tōi andropektomāi) - Literally means "in the opportune time" or "in the appointed season." It refers to God's divinely appointed moment for the reward to be manifested, which may not coincide with human expectations.

• "we will reap": (Greek: therisomen) - A future active indicative verb from therizo, meaning "to reap" or "to harvest." This uses agricultural imagery, a common metaphor in biblical literature, referring to gathering the fruits of one's labor.

• "a harvest": Refers to the consequence or reward of the good deeds previously sown.

• "if we do not give up": (Greek: eam me enkakōmen) - A conditional clause that reiterates the core message of perseverance. It directly links the reaping of the harvest to the continued, unyielding effort in doing good. This is a strong emphasis on steadfastness and endurance.

• "Doing Good and Reaping a Harvest": This word group connects the act of sowing (doing good) with the act of reaping (receiving a harvest), reinforcing the cause-and-effect relationship between persistent good works and future rewards.

• "Proper Time": This phrase highlights divine sovereignty. The timing of the reward is in God's hands, not subject to human impatience or planning, encouraging trust and patience.

• "Weariness and Perseverance": The contrast between "not be weary" and "not give up" underscores the continuous nature of spiritual discipline and effort required in the Christian life, particularly in opposing forces or internal struggles.

Galatians 6 9 Bonus Section

The concept of "reaping a harvest" in relation to "sowing good" is a recurring theme in Scripture. The Old Testament law, for instance, commanded care for the poor and needy, with blessings promised for obedience (Deuteronomy 15:10). In the New Testament, Jesus Himself spoke about the eternal rewards of those who serve others, likening such acts to serving Him directly (Matthew 25:34-40). The context in Galatians is particularly important: believers are to live out the freedom Christ has granted them, which includes demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit, love, which manifests as good works. The weariness Paul addresses can stem from the spiritual warfare and opposition encountered by those who live according to the Spirit, distinguishing them from the flesh. Therefore, this verse is an encouragement not just to general niceness, but to actively living out the gospel with enduring commitment.

Galatians 6 9 Commentary

This verse is a powerful reminder of the importance of sustained faithfulness in living out the Christian life, especially in service and good deeds. Paul uses the familiar metaphor of sowing and reaping to illustrate that our present efforts, when done with a heart for God and perseverance, will yield a future reward. This reward is not earned by works but is a consequence of obedient faithfulness. The "proper time" emphasizes that God's timing for our reaping may differ from our expectations; patience and trust are key. The exhortation to "not give up" is crucial, as spiritual effort often faces opposition, internal doubts, and discouragement, making endurance a hallmark of genuine faith and effective ministry. The strength to persevere comes from Christ, who empowers believers through the Holy Spirit.

• Practical Usage Example 1: A believer faithfully volunteers at a local soup kitchen, even when facing a busy work schedule and feeling unappreciated. They remember that their labor in serving the needy, even if seemingly small, is being sown, and in God's time, a spiritual harvest will follow.
• Practical Usage Example 2: A Christian leader patiently mentors new believers, investing significant time and energy. Despite slow progress or setbacks, they continue, trusting that their faithful sowing in discipleship will yield a significant harvest of mature Christians.