What Cornfields Show Us

I've been listening to the rain since about 3:30 a.m. I can't see the rain gauge until it is light out but it sounded like more than a little shower, again. The corn is tall and tasseling in the fields, so green and beautiful. And the soybeans look excellent. I wonder when there is too much rain for the crops. Perhaps never, as long as it drys out for harvest? 

Isn't it amazing how things grow? I'm just in awe of the miracles all around us. Last year was so dry, yet the yields were quite good, according to what I've heard from my farmer friends. They, too, were amazed. A drive through the countryside will fill your heart with wonder, too. I love Iowa. I know people complain about Iowa being nothing but corn fields, but I find every inch of this state wonderful.

"Listen and hear my voice; pay attention and hear what I say. When a farmer plows for planting, does he plow continually? Does he keep on breaking up and harrowing the soil? When he has leveled the surface, does he not sow caraway and scatter cummin? Does he not plant wheat in its place, barley in its plot, and spelt in its field? His God instructs him and teaches him the right way...All this also comes from the Lord Almighty, wonderful in counsel and magnificent in wisdom." (Isaiah 28:23-26, 29 NIV). 

Each crop is treated with specific attention to what it needs. Farmers know that. But all of us can apply this to dealing with people. Each person is different, with unique circumstances and weaknesses. We need to be sensitive to others and their needs.

Gracious God, we are overwhelmed by Your majesty and wisdom! Help us to understand others and give them encouragement and treatment that they need. Like the farmers, show us how to be careful and sensitive to those around us. We praise You for the individuals You have created and we follow Your guidance as we care for our friends and neighbors. We thank You for sending Jesus to save us by His sacrifice on the cross. Lead us through this day. We pray in the Name of Jesus, Amen.