Our Farming Philosophies

The Phillips Family

It's such a gift to wake up each morning on a farm!  The wonder of God's amazing Creation overwhelms us!  Even though we just farm on a small scale, we have developed management practices that have guided us through the years.  We like to call them our "farming philosophies".  While they are nothing new or original to us, we have seen how these principles have helped our family, our farm, our animals, and our clients. 

Do everything for the glory of God.

Our clients frequently comment on the quality of the animals and products we produce.  What is the reason for this?  As a family, we strive to glorify God in all that we do.  In farming, our first goal is to point people to our loving Creator, Who gave us this beautiful world for us to enjoy.  Therefore, it is vital for us to tackle everything with diligence.  We realize that no chore is too small to be done well.  Yes, we do admit that there are some tasks that aren't as pleasant or exciting as others, but we can still give them our all.  This philosophy has saved us from many disasters, because, neglected little things grow into big problems!  Doing monotonous or tedious chores isn't always easy, but, after all, we are doing them for a higher purpose!  "...Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Be wise stewards of God's Creation.

Through over a decade of farming, we have seen farms rise and fall based on their care of land and livestock.  God has placed the care of this world into our hands.  This fact is foundational to our very lives.  "And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it" (Genesis 2:15).  But what does this look like on our farm?  First, being chemical-free is a top priority to us.  We want the products we use on our property and for our animals to enhance the environment and overall health.  We choose organic, non-GMO, pesticide-free, and herbicide-free feeds and supplies.  From our personal experience, holistic care does work!  As farmers, we can't just snatch at quick fixes, but look at long-term implications.  Second, we provide all of our animals with humane care.  This means meeting their basic needs and respecting their lives.  When we approach butchering or needing to put a suffering animal down, we are careful to undertake the procedures as painlessly as possible.  We spend time with our animals, giving them the attention they need.  In return, they live healthy, productive lives for us!  Last, but not least, wisely caring for our farm means protecting and preserving our natural resources.  Eliminating waste properly.  Enriching the soil with natural fertilizers (like manure!) and cover crops.  Taking into consideration the habitats of native plant and animal species.  These are a few of the ways we endeavor to keep the delicate balance of nature.  Future generations will suffer or advance based on our choices!

Work as a team.

Teamwork is essential to the success of most anything!  "So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work" (Nehemiah 4:6).  Early on, we learned that in order to work well together, we had to be good communicators.  We set aside time to talk over plans, projects, and problems.  We have a shared farm calendar.  This nips confusion and misunderstandings in the bud!  In addition, we trust each other to fulfill our assigned responsibilities.  We cultivate this environment of unity by appreciating each other's work and skill set.  Yes, disagreements and differences of opinion arise, but we choose to calmly work through them.  There is such an immeasurable sense of satisfaction in seeing mutual goals met!

Make farming a lifestyle.

This principle can be hard to grasp.  Sometimes, the challenges of farming are hard to accept.  Damages from severe weather.  Unforeseen expenses.  Freak accidents.  Animal health issues.  We understand how difficult these things are to handle.  So, what do we mean by making farming a lifestyle?  Really, it is a lifestyle of trust in God.  Because, ultimately, He is in control of everything.  Our lives and our farm rests in His loving Hands.  We trust Him for guidance as we make decisions.  "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:5-6).  We don't need to feel overwhelmed when tasks keep piling up on us.  We just face them one at a time, doing the most needed things first.  If we fear and worry, we miss out on the sheer joy of farm life!  We endeavor to learn through our mistakes and challenges, and use our experiences to help others.  

Looking back over ten years of farming, we are grateful.  These principles have been hard to learn sometimes, but the experience we have gained is worth it.  We have so much more to learn, too!  Each day brings fresh work and new opportunities!  Our passion is directing others to pursue Biblical philosophies of farming, and reap the many blessings!  Please contact us, if there is any way we can help you!