Reaping What You Sow

For many students, college is a time for fun, to take advantage of newfound freedoms. But a recent study revealed that many of these students wasted their college opportunities and, as a result, have continued to suffer.

For this study, two noted sociologists examined the actions of more than a thousand students during and after college. Not realizing the impact of their actions, many students “took easy courses, regarded themselves as privileged customers, socialized heavily, and came away with little to show for their years on campus.” In fact, many students “spent almost three-quarters of their time sleeping or socializing.”

The study concluded that “students who did as little as possible during college continued to drift after graduation.” Many did not realize the consequences of their actions until they entered the job market. Two years after graduation, only a quarter had found good-paying jobs. And many of the graduates were unemployed, employed just part-time, or employed in poor-paying jobs.

These students are discovering a Biblical principle: We Reap whatever we Sow. This is true in every area of life, as Jesus illustrated in His parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30).

In practical terms, the Bible tells us that each of us is given a special set of resources, abilities, and opportunities. Some wisely invest their time and resources, like the students who diligently studied in college, who now are reaping the benefits.

But others “hide” their talents and fail to invest what God has given them. They are like the students who didn’t study, and like the prodigal son who “wasted his possessions” and squandered his opportunities (Luke 15:11-33).

In every way, remember that you will Reap what you Sow. Seek to invest your resources in things that matter. And don’t waste the opportunities and resources God gave you.