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Psalm 126:5–6 — “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”

Planting seeds is often hard work, both in the field and in the spiritual life. The psalmist reminds us that sowing sometimes happens with tears. There are burdens we carry in prayer, sacrifices we make in service, and struggles we endure in obedience. These moments of difficulty may tempt us to wonder whether our labor is worth it. Yet God assures us that those who sow in tears will one day reap in joy.

This passage beautifully captures the mixture of sorrow and hope that comes with serving the Lord. The tears we shed are not wasted; they water the seeds of faith and obedience. God sees every prayer whispered in pain, every act of kindness given in weakness, and every step of faith taken in uncertainty. Though we may sow weeping, we can trust Him for a joyful harvest.

The imagery of returning with sheaves is rich with promise. A faithful laborer may begin his task with heaviness, but when the harvest is gathered, his sorrow is turned into singing. The harvest does not belong to us; it belongs to the Lord who gives the increase. That means our job is not to control the outcome but to remain faithful in planting.

Each act of obedience, each gospel witness, and each prayer of intercession is a seed placed in the soil of eternity. One day, God will bring forth a harvest that will fill us with unspeakable joy. Until then, let us keep planting—even through tears—knowing rejoicing awaits.