The Ant
10.23.24
There are four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise. (Proverbs 30:24)
King Agur continues to take an outward look in Proverbs 30. Today he gives attention to four little creatures that display the wonder of God’s Creation. We can learn some interesting and important lessons from these small creatures.
The first creature is the ant. This small animal has very little strength, yet is quite successful in preparing for days ahead.
While I never had an ant farm, I do remember the enjoyment as a young child of spending many summer hours watching these busy creatures. Ants are one of the most common creatures on earth. It is said that they are found on every continent except one, and even that has it in its name (Antarctica)!
The ant makes two appearances in the Bible. King Solomon wrote in Proverbs 30, the ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their food in the summer (25).
The ant of which he speaks is the harvester ant. There are many types of these found in the Middle East. They live primarily in the desert and can be of various sizes. They use their heavy jaws to crack open the shells of seeds. During the summer and fall they gather many seeds and carry them to a nest which they have built underground. The seeds are husked, dried and stored for the coming winter. The husked shells are clear signs of the many entrances to their underground tunnels.
From this ant we learn the lesson of hard work. Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, is sound advice from King Solomon.
When the men of Israel were rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem they were successful in part because we are told that they had a mind to work.
Paul admonished that if a man does not work, neither should he eat.
The ant is not a large or strong animal, yet this does not prevent it from accomplishing its purpose. It is been created by a wise and loving God, and it fulfills its function. We may not think that we are much in this world, but God has a purpose for every life. By his grace and strength we can do His perfect will as we yield ourselves to His care.
Finally, we see in the ant the value of preparation. Although the winters of Israel would be mild compared to what we experience in Minnesota, the ant still must gather his food by the fall. Likewise, we need to prepare before the time of winter. The OT prophet lamented, the harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved. Are you prepared for the winter of eternity?
There is only one way to prepare, and that is by placing your trust in the Lord Jesus and His finished work at Calvary. Too many people are hoping that they will get to heaven by doing enough to please the Lord. This will never work, for Isaiah tells us that all of our righteousnesses are as filthy rags. Only the blood of Jesus Christ can cleanse from sin, and only as we place our faith in Him alone.
This is Pastor Rob Adams, asking you to take a moment to pause and consider these things. If we at Immanuel Baptist Church can be of any help to you, please feel free to call upon us.