Waiting for Rain

It rains a lot where I live. We refer to rain as “liquid sunshine” or “showers of blessing” but often we really want more sun! So, it is a little hard for me to think of anyone waiting patiently for rain. Especially farmers, since I have never even gardened, let alone farmed crops. I have watched our lawn go brown during the hottest part of our summer, though.

The theme in this passage is patience, waiting for the Lord to come back. In some seasons, there is no rain for the crops, no showers of blessing for the soul. Planted seeds need moisture in order to germinate, grow and produce a crop. As believers we may suffer dryness of spirit; we want to be fruitful but are thirsty for God to show up and meet needs.

In journaling about this passage, the notes that I wrote for myself are that I need to stay patient, steady and strong, waiting for the harvest, even in the midst of discouragement. For instance, I teach a children’s church class of grade 4 and 5 boys and girls. Some Sundays, I despair of them having learned anything from me! If I focus on the boy who was disruptive and talking throughout my teaching time, I want to give up. But if I notice the child who answered my questions about the lesson correctly, I can have hope that someday these kids’ lives will bear a lot of spiritual fruit, if I just persevere with them.

Father God, I know that you send the rain that is needed for our spiritual fruitfulness. Help me to be patient in waiting for the harvest, and for your eventual return. Amen.

For Today: I know that someone is reading this devotional who is really suffering, either physically, emotionally or spiritually, and he or she needs the spiritual rain that only God can send, to refresh the soul and spirit. As hard as this situation is, somehow one must be patient, knowing the rain will come. If you are this person, please write to us, so that we can pray for you as you wait. We also have mentors available to walk alongside you, so please reach out and know that we care.