“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.” Galatians 6:7–8

Universal laws govern our lives. Just as the law of gravity governs our movements, so the law of sowing and reaping governs our choices. We reap what we sow. If we sow life–giving choices, we reap blessing; if we sow to please our sinful nature, we reap pain. God is abundantly gracious, always willing to forgive our sins and welcome us home with open arms, but forgiveness does not always negate painful consequences of our poor choices.

Sometimes we can’t see the direct correlation between choices and consequences. Sometimes the wicked prosper and the righteous suffer … for now. It seems like the laws of sowing and reaping is not really true. But we have to take the long view. God promises that in the end, no one who disregards him or his ways will be without consequences. In faith we trust that God will make everything right.

Sometimes we clearly see the link between choices and consequences. “Saul died because he was unfaithful to the LORD” (1 Chronicles 10:13). King Saul, God’s chosen leader made a series of foolish, increasingly wicked choices. He disobeyed God and consulted a witch for guidance. Did God still love Saul? Certainly he did. But God held him accountable for his choices, and he allowed Saul to reap the painful consequences.

Consider how this plays out in our lives. A husband has an affair and betrays his wife. He repents. God forgives him and perhaps his wife does too. Though he is covered in grace, he still faces consequences: a torn marriage, a devastated wife, mixed–up children, haunting regret. Yes, grace, but also pain. It is always better to avoid the sin or the temptation in the first place.

What consequences are you facing?

From an Insight article in the NIV Life Journey Bible.