“‘When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest.’” – Leviticus 19:9, NIV
When the Israelite nation was being established, God gave them laws to rule their land. One of the laws was that during the harvest, fruit and vegetables from the very edge of the field couldn’t be harvested. Any food that fell to the ground during harvest was also to be left.
In this way, God made provisions for the poor and needy. Those who were hungry could go and collect the leftovers after harvest. It was this food that nourished and sustained Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi.
Although you may not be a farmer, are there areas of your life where you could build in more margin? Instead of scheduling every hour of your day, how about leaving an extra hour empty in your planner? Instead of spending every dollar in your budget, how about leaving a hundred unaccounted for?
When we create margin in our lives, it can be a powerful way to invite God to work. That extra hour you held open? God may send you a mother in need of encouragement. That $100 that you saved? God may reveal to you a need in your community that you can meet.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to create margin in my life. Remind me to leave space for You to work! In Jesus’ name, Amen!
