by W. Chaz Glass

Throughout the Bible, rain is used to represent various aspects of God’s relationship with humanity and the progression of divine revelation. In this post we will chart the spiritual significance of rain in the Bible, tracing its journey from former rain to living water, and how it reflects the Christian faith’s core principles.

In biblical terminology, the “former rain” or “early rain” refers to the seasonal rains that softened the soil and prepared it for planting. Symbolically, it represents the initial revelation of God’s Word and guidance in the form of the Old Covenant. The former rain played a crucial role in making the soil fertile, much like how God’s law provided structure and guidance to the Israelites. The law fell like rain, providing the spiritual provisions needed to sustain their relationship in the promise land. They needed to toil in their hearts and bring forth fruit in obedience. Each feast served as a reminder that again watered the ground of their hearts.

As the biblical narrative unfolds, we encounter the concept of the “latter rain.” This later rainfall, much like the former rain, is an essential element for a bountiful harvest. In a spiritual sense, the latter rain represents the outpouring of God’s grace, connected to the New Covenant inaugurated by Jesus Christ. It signifies the fulfillment of God’s promise to pour out His spirit on all flesh. The transition from the former to the latter rain mirrors the shift from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant, from the law to grace. The rain of the knowledge of God and salvation through Christ falling over the entire world. All men knew God existed, but it was Israel that weee given the law and oracles of Him. Now the mystery hidden in Christ rains down on all.

Beyond the former and latter rain, there is the concept of “everlasting water” or “living water.” This represents the eternal and life-giving sustenance that only Jesus Christ can provide. In John 4, we find the story of the woman at the well, where Jesus offers her living water, a symbol of spiritual nourishment and eternal life. This living water is an analogy for the profound satisfaction and spiritual quenching that come from a personal relationship with Jesus. John the Baptist softened on the ground of hearts and minds when he preached the Kingdom was at hand, the heavens were opening up and rain was coming. The connection between rain and growth is unmistakable. Rain nourishes the earth, enabling plants to flourish. Similarly, believers are encouraged to remain connected to Jesus, described as the “true vine” in John 15.

This connection allows them to draw spiritual nourishment and vitality from Him, resulting in the bearing of fruit, which symbolizes the righteous life that follows a deep relationship with Christ. Believers are a spiritual rainforest, extending out from the vine, being watered each day through His word. In this connection, believers experience spiritual growth and transformation.

In the light of Jesus’ statement about a man putting his hand to the plow and looking back, we can draw a new perspective on the believer’s role in preparing the hearts of others to receive salvation. Just as a diligent farmer keeps moving forward when plowing the field, without looking back, believers are called to maintain their commitment and forward focus in the mission of spreading the Gospel. It is through our testimony, praise and worship of Him that we soften the hearts of people to receive Him. This metaphor highlights the urgency and responsibility of the believer’s role in preparing the way for others to receive God’s grace and salvation.

Let us remember the symbolism of rain. The Bible takes us on a journey from the former rain, which prepared the ground, to the latter rain, signifying the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ultimately to the living water found in Jesus Christ. This progression reflects the core principles of the Christian faith, highlighting the importance of knowledge, grace, spiritual growth, and a personal relationship with Christ. Just as rain is essential for the growth and flourishing of the earth, these symbols emphasize the spiritual nourishment and life that come from being in the presence of God and remaining connected to the true source of living water. Additionally, believers in their mission to soften hearts put their hands to the plow knowing rain will fall and water the seeds of the gospel producing a harvest some 30,60 even 100 fold.