Proverbs 6:6-8 says “Go to the ant, you sluggard. Consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”
Today’s verse tells us that we can learn a lot from an ant. As the summer winds down and we enter into harvest season, I thought this would be a good time to think about what that little six legged creature can teach us about our work and finances.
First, it can teach us a thing or two about initiative. It doesn’t need a boss breathing down its thorax all day to muster the necessary motivation to get things done. It’s not a procrastinator. It knows what needs to be done and it does it.
Next, it knows how to work hard. Ants routinely carry 10 to 50 times their own weight over long distances and up and down hills. That would be like you and I carrying our car to work instead of driving it to work. Think about that the next time you’re tempted to complain after a long day at the office.
The ant can also teach us about preparation. It knows the uncertainty inherent in foraging for food. Because of that, it stores up provisions for future use. You and I should take a page from that playbook and set aside money and resources for the future. Life is uncertain. By planning ahead we can usually ride out the storm.
Finally, the ant can teach us about priorities. I can’t say for sure, but I’m guessing that if an ant came across a picnic basket, the temptation would be there to kick back and chow down. Instead, it puts the needs of the colony ahead of its own. Similarly, you and I should keep focused on our key priorities like providing for our families and honoring God with our resources.
Just a few of the things that we can learn from the humble ant.
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