How does Isaiah 28:25 connect with Proverbs' teachings on diligence? The Text at a Glance “When he has leveled its surface, does he not sow dill and scatter cumin? He plants wheat in rows, barley in plots, and spelt within its border.” (Isaiah 28:25) Farming and Faithfulness: Isaiah 28:25 Explained • The farmer starts by “leveling” the soil—careful groundwork before a single seed is sown. • Each seed is placed with intention: dill and cumin are broadcast, wheat is drilled in rows, barley set apart, spelt assigned a border. • The verse assumes this order is the normal, sensible way to farm; God built such wisdom into creation (vv.24–29). • Scripture presents the farmer’s habits as literal, observable facts and as a model of how God expects His people to work. The Proverbs Portrait of Diligence • Diligence produces profit—“The hand of the diligent makes rich” (10:4). • Diligence exercises foresight—“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance” (21:5). • Diligence gains authority—“The hand of the diligent will rule” (12:24). • Diligence satisfies—“The soul of the diligent is fully satisfied” (13:4). • Diligence observes creation—“Go to the ant… consider her ways and be wise” (6:6–8). Connecting the Dots: Diligence in Both Passages • Preparation first, production later – Isaiah’s farmer levels the soil; Proverbs’ wise worker plans before acting (21:5). • Precision in task – Specific placement of seed in Isaiah; focused, purposeful labor in Proverbs (10:4; 12:24). • Patience with process – Farming demands seasons; Proverbs honors steady work over time (13:4). • Prosperity as outcome – A well-sown field yields a harvest; diligent hands “bring wealth” (10:4) and “abundance” (21:5). • God-given wisdom – Isaiah 28:26 states, “For his God instructs and teaches him the right way.” Proverbs echoes that true wisdom begins with fearing the Lord (1:7). Practical Takeaways for Today • Start with solid groundwork—map out tasks, gather resources. • Match methods to the job—one size doesn’t fit all, just as different seeds require different techniques. • Set boundaries—protect key priorities the way spelt is planted within its border. • Stay patient—expect growth to follow God’s timing, not instant results. • Look for God’s instruction in everyday work—He still “teaches the farmer” and the modern worker alike. Complementary Scriptures • Isaiah 28:26 – “For his God instructs and teaches him the right way.” • Proverbs 6:6–8 – diligence learned from the ant. • Proverbs 10:4; 12:24; 13:4; 21:5 – rewards of diligent labor. • 2 Timothy 2:6 – “The hardworking farmer must be the first to partake of the crops.” |
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