My father told me I was the eighth generation in the family to be farming, so you could say that farming is in the blood. Though we were brought up in a church-going tradition there was never a personal conviction. When I look back over the years my heart swells with thankfulness to the Lord for arranging that the first two friends I made on arriving at university were Christians. The providence of God is so amazing and the witness of these friends was used by him to bring me to see my sinful nature before a holy God. The knowledge of sins forgiven by grace alone has sustained me along the windy road of life these past 43 years and will continue to do so until this earthly life ends.
Seeing the wonder of creation daily
You could say that we are blessed as farmers in that there are so many farming biblical characters and so many practical references to farming matters in the Bible. As a child it used to turn my stomach thinking of the prodigal son eating the pig swill; the parable of the sower was always very vivid to me; and I marvelled at the Good Shepherd looking after his sheep, long before I came to see that the Good Shepherd gave his life for the sheep.
Being a farmer allows me to marvel daily in the Lord’s creation whilst also witnessing the impact of original sin in the imperfection of nature. Pests, diseases and ultimately death are also daily struggles. At one particularly difficult time in my farming career the story of the Lord looking after Abraham, a farmer, brought me such comfort and contentment, knowing that the Lord always cares for his people regardless of how difficult life can be.
Quiet times within noisy times
Life is always changing and the farming industry is no different. I’ve seen a lot of change during my time but these past two years change appears to be accelerating. The volume of paperwork has increased dramatically for all businesses, farming included. Time devoted to looking after the animals and crops is almost matched with the time to record everything on paper or digitally and to have official visits for auditing and compliance purposes. The farming life is becoming increasingly complex.
Amongst all this busyness, there is a danger that we are consumed by it all with our spiritual well-being suffering. I’ve had to learn how to have quiet times within noisy times. Sometimes I reflect on verses from Scripture or the words of the preacher from Sunday’s sermon or a Bible study, all whilst driving the tractor or feeding the animals.
During the last ten years I’ve been more involved in representing farmers in the political arena, engaging with politicians and civil servants. Some of the issues discussed can be very complex and sensitive. I’ve often found myself praying silently in meetings seeking the Lord for understanding and wisdom. Being conscious of my weaknesses, prayer is a daily requirement.
Growing in a local church
Throughout my life as a Christian my local church, the community of believers, has played a crucial role. The Lord knows full well our need for good teaching and good company.
Can I share with you a verse which is a constant comfort to me, particularly when you consider the time in which Isaiah spoke it? It was a time when Israel had turned away from the Lord and would, in time, be led away to captivity. This comforting verse reminds us of a loving and faithful God to undeserving people.
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand (Is. 41: 10).
