Leviticus 26:4

I will give you rains in their season, and the land will yield its produce, and the trees of the field will bear their fruit.

Study Bible

I will give you
This phrase signifies a divine promise and assurance from God. The Hebrew root for "give" is "נָתַן" (natan), which implies a generous and intentional act of bestowing. In the context of Leviticus, this promise is contingent upon Israel's obedience to God's commandments. It reflects God's sovereignty and His role as the ultimate provider. Historically, this promise would have been particularly reassuring to an agrarian society dependent on the cycles of nature for survival.

rains in their season
The Hebrew word for "rains" is "מָטָר" (matar), which refers to the life-giving water essential for agriculture. "In their season" indicates the timely and appropriate nature of these rains, aligning with the agricultural calendar. This phrase underscores God's control over nature and His ability to provide precisely what is needed at the right time. In ancient Israel, the timely arrival of rain was crucial for the success of crops, and thus, this promise would have been seen as a direct blessing from God.

and the land shall yield its produce
The word "yield" comes from the Hebrew "יָצָא" (yatsa), meaning to bring forth or produce. This phrase highlights the natural response of the land when blessed by God. The "land" refers to the Promised Land, a central theme in the Old Testament, symbolizing God's covenant and faithfulness. The "produce" signifies the abundance and prosperity that result from divine favor. This promise reassures the Israelites of God's provision and the fruitfulness of the land when they remain faithful.

and the trees of the field shall bear their fruit
The phrase "trees of the field" refers to the various fruit-bearing trees that were vital to the diet and economy of ancient Israel. The Hebrew word for "bear" is "נָשָׂא" (nasa), which means to lift up or carry, indicating the trees' ability to produce and sustain life. "Their fruit" symbolizes the tangible results of God's blessing and the fulfillment of His promises. This imagery of fruitful trees is often used in Scripture to represent prosperity, blessing, and the flourishing of God's people under His care.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The speaker in this verse, promising blessings to the Israelites for their obedience.

2. Israelites
The recipients of God's covenant promises, including the blessings of rain and fruitful harvests.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, where these blessings would manifest.

4. Moses
The mediator of the covenant, through whom God communicated His laws and promises to the Israelites.

5. Covenant
The agreement between God and the Israelites, which includes blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience.

Teaching Points

Obedience Brings Blessings
The verse underscores the principle that God's blessings are often contingent upon our obedience to His commands.

God's Provision
Trust in God's provision is essential, as He promises to meet our needs when we align our lives with His will.

Seasonal Timing
Just as rain comes in its season, God's blessings often come in His perfect timing, requiring patience and faith.

Fruitfulness as a Sign of Faithfulness
The fruitfulness of the land is a metaphor for the spiritual fruitfulness that results from a life lived in obedience to God.

Covenant Relationship
Understanding our relationship with God as a covenant helps us see the importance of faithfulness and the blessings that follow.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of rain in its season relate to the concept of God's timing in our lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are living in obedience to God's commands to receive His blessings?

3. How does the idea of fruitfulness in Leviticus 26:4 connect to the spiritual fruit mentioned in the New Testament?

4. What are some modern-day examples of how God provides for His people when they are faithful to Him?

5. How can we apply the principle of covenant faithfulness in our personal relationship with God today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 11:13-17
This passage reiterates the promise of rain and fruitful harvests as a reward for obedience, emphasizing the conditional nature of these blessings.

Psalm 1:3
Describes the righteous as being like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in season, drawing a parallel to the blessings of obedience.

Matthew 6:33
Jesus teaches about seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, with the promise that all necessary things will be added, echoing the principle of blessings following obedience.

James 5:7-8
Encourages believers to be patient like a farmer waiting for the precious fruit of the earth, highlighting the importance of trusting in God's timing for blessings.