A Biblical Principle Confirmed by the 2022 Corn Harvest Forecast

Across the “fruited plain” of America there are corn pickers and combines.  The 2022 fall harvest is at hand.  Many are disappointed in this year’s crop, and in fact, according to Bloomberg News this is the smallest corn harvest since 2019.

There are many reasons for the smaller crop – weather and pests are two important variables. However, the Bloomberg article states, “the outlook comes after US spring plantings were lower than expected, with farmers keeping more land out of production than anticipated.”[1]

Quite simply, a smaller harvest is directly related to fewer acres being planted.

Fewer acres planted results in fewer bushels harvested.  This makes perfect sense and the Biblical principle holds true.

Paul doesn’t leave the farming analogy there. In the 2 Corinthians passage he ties it to the giving life that we strive to live to God’s glory and honor.

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.  And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may about in every good work…He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.  You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:7-11 ESV

In this fall season – a season marked by bountiful harvest – we have another sowing opportunity as we strive to live the giving life.  By far, the greatest percentage of all charitable gifts are made in the last three months of the calendar year.  We are given opportunity to help meet many compelling and life-giving needs during the fourth quarter of the year.

[1] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-08-26/smallest-us-corn-crop-since-2019-signals-higher-food-costs-ahead