Provision, Sowing and Reaping

“Then this shall be the sign for you: you will eat this year what grows of itself, in the second year what springs from the same, and in the third year sow, reap, plant vineyards and eat their fruit." Isaiah 37:30

The context of this verse is that Judah, at that time King Hezekiah, was surrounded by the Assyrians. Just imagine being surrounded by a vast army, running out of food and water, low in morale. Feels like covid? I think it was easily 100 times worse!

But check out the promise in the midst of that dark time. That you will eat "what grows of itself". Meaning there will be divine provision. 

But notice what happens in the 2nd and 3rd years. 

In the 2nd year, they eat what springs from the same. Meaning, there will be some surplus, perhaps not intentionally sown (or saved and invested) because there isn't much left over. Perhaps it was seeds dropped during harvest. The focus is still provision.

In the 3rd year, they are supposed to eat what is sown. Meaning, whilst there is room for provision, at some point, they are supposed to set aside some of the harvest, and start sowing and reaping. 

In the initial stages, it is ok to depend on some provisions. But at some point, you will need to start getting disciplined, save and invest the surplus. And at the same time depend on the Lord for the harvest. 

Take small steps, but start.