5 Lessons of Harvest and Gratitude from Scripture

While much of the biblical teaching on harvest relates to the tangible blessings of life, Jesus also directs our attention to the ultimate harvest of eternal souls. In Matthew 9:37-38, Jesus reflects on the spiritual harvest that awaits: “Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’” Here, Jesus reminds his disciples that the most important harvest is spiritual. The fields are filled with people who are lost and in need of salvation. This harvest requires workers – people willing to share the Gospel message and lead others to eternal life through relationships with Jesus, humanity’s Savior.

Jesus teaches us two lessons here. First, we must recognize that the true riches of life are spiritual, not material. The ultimate harvest is not wealth or personal success, but the salvation of souls. Second, Jesus’ words challenge us to become workers in this spiritual harvest, actively participating in God’s redemptive work in the world. Knowing that we have received the gift of salvation should inspire us to share it with others, thanking God for the opportunity to be part of that important work. 

In conclusion, the themes of harvest and gratitude intertwine in Scripture to teach us significant lessons about God’s provision, the importance of patience and trust, and the call to join God on mission. Harvest is both a time of thanksgiving for the blessings we’ve received and a reminder of the spiritual work to which we’re called. As we reflect on these lessons, let’s cultivate grateful hearts, trust God to provide for us in the best timing and ways, and commit ourselves to working in God’s harvest fields. God’s harvest is abundant, and God will reward us for what we contribute to it.

Related Resource: A Prayer to Deepen Your Prayer Life This Fall

For Christians, fall, or harvest time, is a season of spiritually gathering up all that we’ve planted and watered. It's a time when we see how God has brought growth through our prayers. Our efforts come forth in a way that encourages and deepens our prayer life, urging us to keep on praying for God’s harvest to be fulfilled.  - Lynette Kittle

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