This week’s Torah reading is Parashat Behar-Bechukotai (Leviticus 25:1-27:34). Read on Shabbat, May 9, 2026 / 28 Iyar 5786. The following is a special devotional drawn from this week’s reading.
“If you walk in My statutes and keep My commandments and do them, then I will give you your rains in their season, and the land shall yield its produce, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit” (Leviticus 26:3-4).
Parashat Behar begins with the command of the sabbatical year, when the land itself is given rest. Every seventh year, the people are to step back from planting and harvesting, trusting that God will provide. This rhythm teaches that the land does not ultimately belong to them. It belongs to God. The people are stewards, called to live with humility and trust rather than control.
The portion continues with the Year of Jubilee, a time of release and restoration. Debts are forgiven, land is returned, and those who have fallen into hardship are given a new beginning. These commands reveal a vision of society shaped by mercy and justice. God’s desire is not for permanent inequality or endless burden, but for restoration that reflects His compassion.
Bechukotai then sets before the people a clear choice. Blessing follows obedience, while distance from God leads to hardship. Yet even within the warnings, there is a thread of hope. God promises that if the people turn back to Him, He will remember His covenant. His faithfulness remains, even when human faithfulness falters.
These chapters remind us that trust in God is expressed not only in belief but in how we live. Resting when it seems risky, giving when it feels costly, and obeying when it is difficult all reveal where our confidence lies. God invites His people to live differently, reflecting His character in their choices and priorities.
Some may be striving to hold everything together, hesitant to release control. Behar encourages a posture of trust, remembering that God is the true provider. Others may feel the weight of past mistakes or ongoing struggles. Bechukotai offers reassurance that turning back to God opens the door to restoration and renewed relationship.
As this Shabbat arrives, reflect on areas where God may be calling you to trust Him more deeply. Consider one way you can practice rest, generosity, or obedience this week. Let your actions declare that your security rests not in what you control, but in the faithfulness of God who provides and restores.
PRAYER
Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness and provision. Teach me to trust You with my resources, my time, and my future. Help me walk in Your ways and rest in Your promises. May my life reflect confidence in Your goodness and care. Amen.
