Key Scriptures: Genesis 8:22, 1 Peter 4:10, Romans 12:3–8
Introduction: What’s in Your Hand?
Every believer carries within them a measure of God’s grace—gifts, resources, time, abilities, and opportunities. The question is not if you’ve been given something, but what are you doing with what you’ve been given?
Just like a farmer separates seed from the bread he eats, we must learn to separate what’s meant for consumption from what’s meant for sowing. A wise farmer never hoards his seeds—he plants them, trusting the God-ordained cycle of seedtime and harvest (Genesis 8:22).
In the same way, God has given each of us “seeds” to plant—whether it be time, words, encouragement, money, skill, or service. These are not to be stored away, but to be sown faithfully for His kingdom purposes.
1. The Divine Principle of Seedtime and Harvest
Genesis 8:22 – “As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest… will never cease.”
Galatians 6:7 – “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
This principle is foundational in both the natural and spiritual realms. Whatever is sown—good or bad—will eventually bring forth a harvest.
Every action, every word, every use of your time and every gift you give is a seed. If we want to see growth, change, or impact, we must first sow. You can’t expect a harvest where no seed has been planted.
- Want to grow in faith? Sow time in God’s Word.
- Want to bless others? Sow encouragement, service, and generosity.
- Want to see fruit in ministry? Sow your God-given gifts into others.
We must not underestimate the power of small seeds sown in faith. No sowing, no harvest.
2. You’ve Been Given Something – Steward It Well
1 Peter 4:10 – “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
No believer is without a gift. God has entrusted each of us with something—whether that’s the ability to teach, give, encourage, serve, lead, or create. These are not for self-promotion, but for service. Our gifts are not ornaments; they are tools.
Key Truths from This Verse:
- “Whatever gift” – Big or small, your gift matters.
- “You have received” – It’s not earned; it’s given by grace.
- “To serve others” – Our gifts are others-focused.
- “Faithful stewards” – We are managers, not owners.
Stop comparing your seed with someone else’s. God will not hold you accountable for the gift you weren’t given—He will hold you accountable for the one you were. Your gift matters. Use it.
Imagine a massive warehouse filled with seeds. If they’re never planted, they’ll rot. Likewise, a gift unused is a harvest unrealised.
3. Use Your Specific Gift – Don’t Bury It
Romans 12:6-8 – “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us…”
Matthew 25:14-30 – The Parable of the Talents
The Apostle Paul outlines a variety of spiritual gifts: prophecy, service, teaching, encouragement, generosity, leadership, and mercy. Each is different, but all are necessary.
We are one body with many parts—interdependent and interconnected. Your gift complements others. When you withhold your gift, the body lacks.
- Diversity of gifts is part of God’s design.
- Every role is vital—there’s no “small” assignment in the kingdom.
- Pride and comparison can cripple the use of our gifts.
- Burying your gift is disobedience. God expects fruit, not just faithfulness.
The servant who buried his talent was not praised for being cautious—he was rebuked for his inaction. God is not looking for preservation; He’s looking for multiplication.
How to Sow What You’ve Been Given
1. Identify Your Seed
Take inventory. What has God entrusted to you? Your time, talents, finances, relationships, energy—these are all “seeds” that can be sown for kingdom impact.
2. Start Sowing Today
Don’t wait for the perfect opportunity. Look for ways to serve in your church, community, workplace, and family. Ask: Where is there a need, and what do I have that can meet it?
3. Don’t Fear Small Beginnings
Zechariah 4:10 – “Do not despise these small beginnings…”
Start where you are. The smallest seed, when sown in faith, can grow into something significant.
4. Expect a Harvest
God is faithful. Though the harvest may not be immediate, it is inevitable for those who sow in faith and obedience.
Conclusion: What Are You Doing with What You’ve Been Given?
God has given you something valuable. Don’t bury it. Don’t delay it. Don’t diminish it. Sow it.
1 Peter 4:11 – “If anyone speaks, let him speak as one who speaks the oracles of God… so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.”
Your seed may just be the answer to someone else’s prayer. Sow what you’ve been given—for His glory and the good of others.
