The Bible agrees that actions have consequences. “Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” But Christianity adds something karma doesn’t have: grace. Grace means God doesn’t give us what we deserve. The thief on the cross had no good deeds to balance his ledger, and Jesus promised him paradise anyway.
Historical Context
A Prayer When You’ve Been Wronged
Lord, I want them to get what they deserve.
You saw what happened. You know the truth.
I’m handing it over to you, because you judge fairly and I don’t.
Take the bitterness out of me.
Bring justice where it’s needed,
and if they can still change, change them.
Amen.
A Prayer to Sow Good Seed
Lord, let what I plant today be good:
kind words, honest work and generous hands.
I’m not doing it to earn a reward,
but because it’s what you do.
Amen.
A Prayer for Mercy
Lord, if I got what I deserved, I’d be in trouble.
Thank you for mercy.
Help me give others the grace you’ve given me.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- When you’ve been treated unfairly.
- When you’re tempted to take revenge.
- When you’re doing good and feel no one notices.
Scripture Connection
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap… And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” — Galatians 6:7, 9
Paul uses the reaping principle mainly as encouragement: keep doing good, it will bear fruit. Judgment he leaves to God.
Related prayers
For enemies, see the Prayer for Haters. For letting go, the Prayer of Release. For anger, the Prayer to Remove the Spirit of Anger.