ANT SAFARI

ANT SAFARI

READ:
Proverbs 6:6-11

Go to the ant....Consider
her ways and be wise.
-Proverbs 6:6

In his book Adventures Among Ants:  A Global Safari with a Cast of Trillions, Mark Moffett reflects on his early childhood fascination with ants-an interest that didn't die as he grew older.  Moffett's preoccupation led to his earning a doctorate at Harvard and then embarking on worldwide travel as an expert on the subject.  His study has given him marvelous insights about these industrious creatures.

Long before Moffett discovered some of the wonders of the ant world, the Scriptures remarked on the ingenuity and work ethic of these tiny insects.  Ants are held up by wise King Solomon as an example of industry for those who tend to be lazy:  "Go to the ant, you sluggard!  Consider her ways and be wise, which, having no captain...provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest" (Proverbs 6:6-8).

The marvels of God's creation are beautifully illustrated as God uses His creatures to instruct us.  For instance, from the ant we can see the importance of planning ahead and laying away provisions for the future (30:25).  God built spiritual lessons into nature itself, and we can learn from creatures even as tiny as an ant. -Dennis Fisher

In the open book of nature faith remains unmoved-
Patterns of the Master-Builder by each fact are proved;
So with reverent hearts we ponder all the grand design
Of the universe around us, wrought by hands divine. -Peterson
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In God's pattern book of nature
we can trace many valuable lessons.

INSIGHT
Today's passage criticizes the sluggard and applauds the industrious.  The lazy person ducks responsibility and procrastinates planning for the future.  As a result, the sluggard wastes both opportunities and gifts.  By contrast, the ant exhibits a strong work ethic (vv.6-8); it is by nature a proactive harvester.  All summer long it makes use of good weather and abundant food sources to assemble a great store to be used during the long, harsh winter.  The ant teaches us responsibility and planning to provide security for self and family.

Have a blessed day and week ahead.
God Our Creator's Love Always.
Unity & Peace