Galatians 6:9, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

The other day I ran into a friend who seemed discouraged. When I asked how he was, he replied, “Mike, I feel like I’m always behind. I cannot catch-up. And I’m just plain tired.”

At some point in our lives, all of us can relate to how my friend was feeling. I don’t know anyone who hasn’t been through a season of struggle – the uphill battle – the hard times which seem never ending. Even though we are trying to do what is right, it seems nothing but wrong is happening in our lives.

Many years ago, I was pastoring a small church in a rural community. There was a single mom who worked in a clothing factory. She and her two boys attended our church on a regular basis. Sheila volunteered in children’s ministry and on Saturday mornings arrived at 7:00 AM to clean the nursery and all the toys so it was ready for Sunday morning service. Financially, Sheila struggled to pay the mortgage and provide food and clothing for her children. Regardless of the strain on her life, she and her boys did not miss an opportunity to serve in our church.

Many years later, I ran into Sheila at the airport in Atlanta. Her flight had been delayed. She told me she was going to a Leadership Conference in Las Vegas.

“Leadership Conference? How wonderful!” I exclaimed, but my face inquisitively gave my curiosity away.

Sheila smiled. “Shortly after you left our church, the foreman at the factory unexpectedly passed away. I was offered the job. The extra money gave me the opportunity to attend college.  After several years of working as foreman and going to college, the manager left and my name was given to the owner for the opportunity. I’ve climbed the corporate ladder and now I oversee all factory branches.”

Not only was I excited for her, I was amazed. Life had definitely taken a turn for her. I wanted to hear more.

The simple explanation – she didn’t quit – even when she wanted to quit. She kept working hard. She kept serving God. She kept reading her Bible, praying, seeking His guidance – and He opened the doors for her. It wasn’t overnight. The process took several years; but, she went from a $6.00 per hour employee to a 6 figure yearly salaried employee. Coincidence? No… “in due season, she reaped the benefit because she did not lose heart.”

I want to encourage you today. Do not grow weary doing good – God has a plan for you – He has an answer for your struggle. Keep working. Keep seeking Him. Keep doing good.

Your harvest is on the way.