"… because the Lord your God will bless you in all your produce and in all the work of your hands, so that you will be altogether joyful." - Deuteronomy 16:15 ESV
“Get your camera phone ready and open the front door in 10 minutes,” my husband texted me. What a strange request! I thought he was in the backyard relaxing and enjoying some fresh air, so what’s this all about? But I did what he asked. To my surprise, Ken had a big bowl of newly harvested grapes from our two vines, the fruit of two years of hard work. I happily took his photo. Two more harvests followed, enough to share with family and neighbors our joyful abundance.
Planting and harvest times were talked-about events in the Bible. Following the cycle of nature, barley was harvested in the springtime and wheat in the fall. These were staple grains and part of their everyday diet. When Joseph became Pharaoh’s second-in-command after he interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, his economic plan of planting, gathering, and storing grain in the seven years of plenty met not only Egypt’s need but the world’s as well during the great famine (Genesis 41-47). After moving to Bethlehem with her mother-in-law Naomi, we see Ruth gleaning and gathering both barley and wheat grains after the reapers in Boaz’s field, signaling a year-long food provision for their survival (Ruth 2:1-23). Jesus’ disciples plucked heads of grain to ease their hunger as they went through a grainfield (Mark 2:23).
When Moses was preparing for his earthly departure and Israel to enter the Promised Land, he reminded them of God’s blessings if they obeyed His commands and instructions. He gave them a picture of the land they will possess, which will be watered by rain year-round, allowing them to gather their grain, wine, and oil. Moses stressed this: “… because the Lord your God will bless you in all your produce and in all the work of your hands, so that you will be altogether joyful” (Deuteronomy 16:15 ESV).
There is hard work involved in planting and harvesting. Anyone with a vegetable garden at home knows you must clear your plot of land from debris and rocks before putting in the right soil — a perfect balance of earth, sand, and clay. You must also have a water system and good drainage. And to further grow your garden, there’s weeding, watering, fertilizing, and maintenance involved. But when you see the vegetables look vibrant, firm, and mature, it’s harvest time. Don’t forget to also consider the right time of day and the right tools to achieve optimal flavor at harvest.
Now imagine the joy of sitting at your dining table, gathered around your mini-version of prepared farm-to-table meals. You serve produce you know well because you grow it. You’re also promoting a healthier food option for the people you love and care for.
Instant gratification has been the enemy of hard work today, especially when it involves using our hands and getting them dirty. Gardening has been shown to relieve stress and anxiety by helping one relax, be mindful, and connect with nature. The physical activity of weeding and digging may be backbreaking at times, but it’s a natural form of exercise. And caring for what you planted allows you to be present, engaged, and mindfully connected. There’s joy in all this as you begin to see its impact on your overall physical and mental wellness.
Think about your spiritual life now. Perhaps it can use some weeding and debris removal as you reflect on sins you have been nurturing for too long. After confessing it, ask God to begin planting and watering His Word. Invite the Holy Spirit to bring you maturity – and there is no shortcut to this. And when the harvest of good works comes, you can rejoice in it as you abundantly share with others.
Let’s pray ...
Jesus,
I ask that you prepare my heart and mind like rich soil to receive Your Word, so I can grow in maturity, ready for the good works You have designed for me. Thank You that I can rejoice in the blessing of hard work by standing firm on Your truth and in obedience to Your instructions.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.
What truth from today’s devotional is God using to encourage your heart? Share your reflection and join our conversation in the iBelieve Truth Devotional Forum.
Feel like digging a little deeper? Here is a wonderful resource to meet you right where you are. 5 Comforting Psalms for When We Worry: A Guided Reflection Journal
Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/AlexRaths
Luisa Collopy is an author, speaker and a women’s Bible study teacher. She also produces Mula sa Puso (From the Heart) in Tagalog (her heart language), released on FEBC Philippines stations. Luisa loves spending time with her family over meals and karaoke!
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Like what you hear? Be sure to follow I Wish You Could Hear This on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
Originally published Sunday, 25 October 2026.
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