Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. Psalms 126:5
The entire Psalm 126 depicts the great victory of Israelites which might be over a tragedy or a war or a famine or captivity. The outstanding victory was like a dream for them. They must have experienced bitter sorrow, hopelessness, mockery by the enemy, weeping and wailing. But after God delivered them – Expression of great joy, laughter and gladness is overflowing in this chapter. They have sown the seed in tears but reaped with songs of joy. Those who sowed tears in times of misfortune would one day reap joy in the time of God's deliverance.
Prayer with tears for the dear one's salvation, the unseen toil involved in bringing many to Christ, steadfast prayers of the saints, the discipline involved in preparing for that career growth or any such sincere effort will surely one day be reaped with songs of joy.
One thing is for sure – 'sowing is mandatory' to experience the joy of reaping. May the wisdom of God help us to sow rightly.