Harvest Time

12 / Sun  | Read John 4:35

Overview: Like Minnesota sweet corn that must mature before it’s ready for harvest, our faith, when nourished, can grow until we become not just part of God’s harvest, but also His harvesters.

13 / Mon – A harvest story  |  Read Psalm 4:5

Harvest is one of the busiest times for farmers. One woman related this unusual story of one particular harvest on her grandfather’s farm. A week of rain was forecast to begin on Monday. All his neighbors got into their fields early Sunday morning, but he went to church. It was just one example of the way he lived to honor the Lord. The heavy rains came on Monday morning, and fields were deluged. All except her grandfather’s. They remained dry, and he was able to finish harvesting. Do you remember a time when you put God first, and He honored that sacrifice?

14 / Tue – Then and now  |  Read Exodus 20:8-11 / Genesis 2:2-3 / Deuteronomy 5:12-15

God gave the 10 commands after He rescued His people from Egypt. These are obeyed by God’s people today. Except maybe the Sabbath command. We live such busy lives, and it seems wasteful to take this specific command literally. Where was this rooted, according to Genesis? How were the Israelites to apply it on their 7th day? What historical reminder did Moses add in Deuteronomy 5? How well are you following this command in your life? It is a gift God knows you need.

15 / Wed – AM or PM or both?  |  Read Psalm 92:1-5

Some people connect with God in the morning before jumping into their day, while others set aside time just before going to sleep. This psalm-writer did both. What was his focus in the morning? And in the evening? What made him glad? Was music a part of his worship? How could you use his example to enrich your conversations with the Lord? No matter what time of day you choose, consider what will help you focus your attention on Him. And then enjoy your time together.

16 / Thu – They say…God says  |  Read Ezekiel 37:1-14

Ezekiel was among those deported to Babylon when his nation was conquered by Nebuchadnezzar. God spoke to him in visions, which he shared with the people. Some visions reminded them of their sin that caused the exile, and then the amazing things God would do when that discipline was over. This vision was a dramatic portrayal of God’s ability to restore. Have you, or someone you know, experienced a situation where all hope seemed lost? What did God do in response? How did that build your/their endurance and trust in the ultimate goodness of the Lord?

17 / Fri – Can he trust you?  |  Read Psalm 25:14

Who do you confide in? Why do they seem like a safe place where you can be yourself and share your thoughts without being judged? Do you try to be the kind of person others can confide in? If so, were you surprised by this verse? Does this perspective change the way you think about your relationship with the Lord? What quality allows Him to confide in you? What can He trust you with?

18 / Sat – What are you waiting for?  |  Read Genesis 21:1-7 / Isaiah 40:1-5, 28-31

Waiting is difficult, especially when needs are urgent, and nothing seems to be happening. It is a test of your persistence and willingness to trust God when circumstances don’t change. When your hope seems to fade, remember where your hope comes from. Not from your own efforts. Not from other people but from the Lord. That is why we call Him the God of all hope. He can and will do everything necessary to see His purposes fulfilled, in His way and in His time. What are you waiting for? Will you talk to the Lord all about it?