Leviticus 25:20

Now you may wonder, 'What will we eat in the seventh year if we do not sow or gather our produce?'

Study Bible

Now you may wonder
This phrase introduces a common human concern about the future and provision. In Hebrew, the word for "wonder" can imply a deep questioning or pondering. It reflects the natural human tendency to worry about sustenance and security, especially when faced with divine instructions that challenge conventional wisdom. This sets the stage for a teaching moment about faith and reliance on God's provision.

What will we eat
The question of "What will we eat" is a fundamental human concern, echoing the Israelites' dependence on God for daily sustenance. In the wilderness, God provided manna, teaching them to trust in His provision. This phrase reminds believers that God is aware of their needs and has plans to meet them, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

in the seventh year
The "seventh year" refers to the Sabbatical year, a time of rest for the land as commanded in Leviticus 25:4. This year of rest is a test of faith, requiring the Israelites to trust that God will provide enough in the sixth year to sustain them through the seventh. It is a reminder of the creation pattern, where God rested on the seventh day, and a call to trust in His sovereignty and provision.

if we do not sow or gather our produce
The act of not sowing or gathering is a radical departure from the agrarian lifestyle, which depended on regular planting and harvesting. This command challenges the Israelites to rely not on their efforts but on God's promise of provision. Historically, this practice would have set Israel apart from surrounding nations, serving as a testament to their unique covenant relationship with God. It underscores the principle that true security comes not from human effort but from divine faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including the instructions in Leviticus.

2. Israelites
The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, living in the Promised Land.

3. Sabbath Year
A year of rest for the land, occurring every seventh year, where the Israelites were commanded not to sow or reap.

4. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. God
The divine lawgiver who provided these instructions to ensure trust and reliance on His provision.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Provision
The command to observe the Sabbath Year challenges believers to trust in God's provision, even when it seems counterintuitive.

Faith Over Fear
The Israelites' question reflects a natural human concern, but God calls us to replace fear with faith in His promises.

Obedience and Dependence
Observing the Sabbath Year required obedience and a dependence on God, teaching us the importance of aligning our actions with His commands.

Spiritual Rest
The Sabbath Year is a foreshadowing of the spiritual rest we find in Christ, encouraging us to cease striving and rest in His finished work.

Community and Sharing
The Sabbath Year also encouraged community reliance and sharing, as the land's produce was available to all, teaching us about generosity and communal support.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the Sabbath Year challenge our modern understanding of work and rest?

2. In what ways can we practice trusting God for our needs in today's world, similar to the Israelites during the Sabbath Year?

3. How does the principle of resting in God's provision apply to our spiritual lives and relationship with Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can support and share with our community, reflecting the communal aspect of the Sabbath Year?

5. How can we overcome fear and anxiety about the future by applying the lessons from Leviticus 25:20 and related scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 16
The provision of manna in the wilderness demonstrates God's ability to provide for His people when they rest and trust in Him.

Matthew 6
Jesus teaches about not worrying about what to eat or drink, emphasizing trust in God's provision.

Hebrews 4
Discusses the concept of rest, drawing parallels between the Sabbath rest and the spiritual rest found in Christ.