How does Isaiah 7:21 illustrate God's provision during times of scarcity? The Verse in Focus “On that day a man will raise a young cow and two sheep.” (Isaiah 7:21) Historical Setting • Time of King Ahaz, when Judah faced invasion and economic ruin • Assyrian armies would devastate fields and vineyards (Isaiah 7:17–20) • Large herds and abundant crops would disappear, leaving only a few animals Provision in the Midst of Scarcity • One heifer and two sheep seem minimal, yet their daily milk would be ample • Verse 22 explains the result: “and from the abundance of the milk they give, he will eat curds—for everyone left in the land will eat curds and honey.” • God turns a meager remnant into a sustainable source of nourishment Key Principles • God preserves a remnant of resources even when judgment or hardship strips away abundance • Small, ordinary means (a cow, a couple of sheep) become sufficient under His blessing • Provision is continuous (“abundance of the milk”) rather than a single gift, showing His ongoing care • The promise is covenant-focused—God supplies so His people can survive to fulfill their calling Scriptural Echoes • Exodus 16:18 — no one gathered too much or too little of the manna • 1 Kings 17:14 — flour and oil for the widow of Zarephath never ran out • Psalm 37:19 — “in the days of famine they will be satisfied” • Matthew 6:31-33 — “your heavenly Father knows that you need them” • Philippians 4:19 — “my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” Encouragement for Today • Expect God to work through the “little” you still have • Trust His promise to sustain you when external supports fail • Remember that His provision may look humble but will prove abundant under His hand |
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