Doing What’s Right

In my quest to read through the Bible again this year I came across a verse from the book of Hosea that I’ve been mulling over the past few days,

“Plant the good seeds of righteousness and you will harvest a crop of love.” (Hosea 10:12)

I suppose you could say this is the the prophet’s version of the adage “you reap what you sow”.  Except here we are told explicitly what we should plant – seeds of righteousness.  What exactly does this mean?  Basically it means doing the right thing whether you feel like it or not. 

When our youngest daughter, Ashton, was little I used to end every goodnight prayer for her by saying, “…and dear Lord, please help Ashton to choose to do right even when she’s tempted to do wrong.”  That’s a prayer we should all to take to heart for ourselves! 

Choosing to do right.  It’s the seed of righteousness

Even when.

Even if.

Even though.

Sometimes choosing to do right is easier said than done.  It takes a humble, submitted heart to choose to do right when your flesh screams you have every reason not to. 

Perhaps that’s why verse continues,

“Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the Lord,that he may come and shower righteousness upon you.” (Hosea 10:12)

What kind or seeds are you planting with those in your family?  In your workplace?  In your neighborhood?  At the grocery store, coffee shop or soccer field?  Are you planting seeds of righteousness?  Or does your heart need a little plowing to soften some hard places?

Every one of us needs a little soul plowing every now and then.

If there’s a person you haven’t treated right, plow your heart and make amends.  If there’s a sin you’ve committed, plow your heart and repent. If there’s an area of temptation you’ve toyed with, plow your heart and run away.

Sow seeds of righteousness.  Choose to do what’s right whether you feel like it or not.  You’ll harvest a crop of love.

Just something to think about for today….