Words of Hope?

Restore our fortunes, Lord, as streams renew the desert. Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest. Psalm 126: 4-6 NLT

These verses seem to be words of hope. If you cry now, you will be full of joy later. Sadness now while you work hard to accomplish something means that you will be greatly rewarded and will be rejoicing in the future. 

Almost sounds like works righteousness. If you work hard, you will reap the benefits. If you work hard in this life, you will be giving that crown with all those jewels in it when you get to heaven. 

For someone who is having a hard time, these words do bring a spirit of comfort. But if you simply live by them, I think you will be in for some major disappointment. I know many people who work hard yet still struggle to get by. The ones who simply have a joy in the Lord -- rather than a joy in results -- are the ones who have the deepest hope. Certainly, we can appeal to God for refreshment and restoration. But our love for God should be deeper and not dependent on God’s rewards. 

God, we praise you and give you the glory -- no matter if we are crying or laughing. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Copyright Amelia G. Sims 2012