How does Exodus 23:11 encourage stewardship of God's creation in our lives? Setting the Scene Exodus 23:11: “but during the seventh year let the land lie fallow and let it rest, so that the poor among you may eat, and the wild animals of the field may consume what they leave. Do the same with your vineyard and olive grove.” Key Observations • God commands a literal, rhythmic rest for the soil every seventh year. • The instruction is rooted in His ownership of the land (cf. Leviticus 25:23). • Two beneficiaries are singled out: the poor and the wild animals. • The directive covers grain fields, vineyards, and olive groves—total stewardship, not selective. • Rest is an act of obedience that showcases trust in God’s provision. Principles of Stewardship • Ownership: “The earth is the LORD’s” (Psalm 24:1). We manage what belongs to Him. • Rest and Renewal: Just as people need Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11), creation requires Sabbath. • Provision for the Vulnerable: Leaving produce for the poor echoes gleaning laws (Leviticus 19:9-10). • Care for Wildlife: “A righteous man regards the life of his animal” (Proverbs 12:10). Creation care extends beyond human need. • Faith over Fear: Letting land lie fallow trusts God to supply year six harvest in abundance (Leviticus 25:20-22). Supporting Scriptures • Genesis 2:15—Adam placed in Eden “to work it and keep it.” • Leviticus 25:4—“In the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of complete rest for the land.” • Deuteronomy 22:6—Compassion in harvesting even a bird’s nest. • Colossians 1:16-17—All things created through and for Christ, and “in Him all things hold together.” Putting It into Practice Today • Practice rhythmic rest: leave sections of gardens or fields unplanted some seasons; rotate crops to honor soil health. • Share surplus: donate produce or resources to local food banks, following the model of provision for the poor. • Protect habitats: set aside parts of your yard or property for native plants and wildlife corridors. • Consume thoughtfully: choose products that respect creation—ethically sourced, sustainable, minimally wasteful. • Teach the next generation: involve children in gardening, recycling, and wildlife care so they see stewardship as worship. Why It Matters Honoring Exodus 23:11 declares that God, not profit or convenience, is Lord of the land. By letting creation rest and share in its bounty, we mirror His character—generous, wise, and faithful—and anticipate the ultimate restoration when “creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay” (Romans 8:21). |
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