What does the Bible say about reaping and sowing?

In John 4:31-38, Jesus uses the metaphor of reaping and sowing to illustrate spiritual work. He emphasizes that while physical labor is important, the true nourishment comes from doing the will of God. He says, 'My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work' (John 4:34). The disciples are reminded that they are sent to reap where others have sown, indicating that God's kingdom work involves collaboration, where previous generations have laid the foundation and they are now able to see the fruit of that labor. The joy of both sower and reaper lies in sharing in the reward of eternal life through obedience to God’s calling.