Isaiah 30:23

Then shall he give the rain of thy seed, that thou shalt sow the ground withal; and bread of the increase of the earth, and it shall be fat and plenteous: in that day shall thy cattle feed in large pastures.

Cross-References

Isaiah 30:23 stands in the first part of Isaiah, chapters 1 to 39, which were given during Isaiah's active work among the rulers and people as God's messenger to the nation as separate prophecies published at different times and occasions and later gathered into one collection. This is distinct from chapters 40 to 66, which belong to his later years and focus wholly on the future, on deliverance from Babylonian captivity and deliverance from sin and error through the Messiah. The verse falls within chapters 24-35, a group of varied prophecies that look forward especially to the last days and God's judgments upon the earth. The surrounding chapters teach against trusting in people and show human frailty. The verse belongs to prophecies concerning Israel, with Israel also serving as a type of conditions in the Christian age.

The verse promises that God will give rain for sown seed and make the increase of the earth fat and plenteous for food, with large pastures for cattle to feed in. Rain is sent or withheld by God and is given when His people obey and put away idols; it is one of God's essential contributions to the harvest, alongside the warmth and work He supplies to the earth. The abundant harvests, well-fed cattle, and rich provision picture the fullness of life with God, received in rich spiritual abundance when love for God has won the heart's undivided affection and the way to receive from Him is unobstructed. The prophetic announcement to which the verse belongs finds fulfillment especially associated with the latter days, when Christ's kingdom is about to replace the reign of sin on earth. The chapter has a millennial connection, which means its descriptions are not to be read as literal accounts of the Lord's coming and judgment.

❧