Daily Devotional for Thursday, September 5

The Vine and the Vineyard Owner

“Thou hast brought a vine out of Egypt: thou hast cast out the heathen, and planted it. Why hast thou then broken down her hedges, so that all they which pass by the way do pluck her?” Psalm 80:8, 12.

The Bible is rich in imagery when describing the relationship the Lord has with His people. Israel is likened to a vineyard that the Lord planted and nourished so that it would grow abundantly and fill the land.

It takes a great deal of work for a farmer to plant a vineyard. He does so with deliberate care to make sure the vines produce the best fruit possible. Taking care of a vineyard is a year-round job. Throughout each season the plants are carefully inspected to make sure the vines are clean and nothing is hindering them from producing. Every winter they are pruned back so the productive vines can bring forth even more fruit. Even today, most of the work in a vineyard is done by hand to make sure the branches are not damaged.

God did the same for Israel. Isaiah 5:1-7 tells how God did everything He could for the people of Israel to insure their protection and provision. “What could have been done more to my vineyard, that I have not done in it? wherefore, when I looked that it should bring forth grapes, brought it forth wild grapes” (Isaiah 5:4).

Yet, they rebelled. When a person, or nation continues to rebel, God does not strive with them forever. Like Israel, you have a God who loves you, takes care of you, protects and provides for you. He is your Rock and Deliverer. He is the Horn of your salvation. In salvation, God has done everything to ensure your eternal safety.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
When things get difficult, turn your frustration to praise. Praise God for all the things He has done for you.

Karry Irizarry