Here on the farm, fall harvest is under way and will be continuing through the month of November. We never know exactly what kind of season we will have with our crops, so we trust the Lord with the results. One thing we do know, is that it always requires a big investment on our end to begin the process. Quality seeds must be purchased and then the correct amount of fertilizer and water needs to be applied into a well-groomed soil. The process involves spending a lot of money as well as time in great hopes that all we do will be rewarded with the abundant fruits of all our labor. We have barns full of hay, silos full of silage (fermented grasses and corn plants), and real soon we trust, a bin full of shelled corn to supply the needs of our cows, with extra to sell to other farmers who cannot grow enough for their animals.
The Bible speaks much about growing and harvesting crops as many people were farmers in the times that it was written. Most everyone was responsible for providing food for their own homes and animals. They understood and could relate to such verses as:
Genesis 8:22 – “While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.”
- We are reminded here, of God’s continued FAITHFULNESS.
Exodus 34:21 – “Six days thou shalt work, but on the seventh day thou shalt rest: in earing time and in harvest thou shalt rest.”
- We are reminded here, of God’s command for us to REST.
Deuteronomy 24:19 – “When thou cuttest down thine harvest in thy field, and hast forgot a sheaf in the field, thou shalt not go again to fetch it: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow: that the Lord thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hands.”
- We are reminded here, of God’s BLESSING when we are generous to others.
Proverbs 20:4 – “The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.”
- We are reminded here, of God’s warning of the dangers of LAZINESS.
Luke 10:2 – “Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.”
It’s harvest time, not just for farmers, but for all who trust in Christ for their salvation. Are you grateful for God’s faithfulness, provision for rest, and blessings for your efforts? Are you working hard each day to please the Lord in everything you are asked to do and are you being faithful to share your faith with others? If not, why not begin today? Harvest time is upon us, but soon the snow will come! Will your barns, silos, and bins be full, or will you be left begging in regret? Let’s get to it, times a wastin’!
