September 20, 2023
Go to the ant, O sluggard;
consider her ways, and be wise.
Without having any chief,
officer, or ruler,
she prepares her bread in summer
and gathers her food in harvest.
How long will you lie there, O sluggard?
When will you arise from your sleep?
A little sleep, a little slumber,
a little folding of the hands to rest,
and poverty will come upon you like a robber,
and want like an armed man.
Proverbs 6:6-11 (ESV)
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How easy it is today to be like the sluggard. Just another press of the snooze button, a few more minutes on social media, or just one more episode. All these seemingly small things add up and erode away the time.
Solomon instructs us to look at some of the tiniest creatures in God’s creation, ants, for an example of work ethic. Ants don’t need to be told what to do and don’t question their purpose; they go to work doing what they were created for.
Man was created to glorify God, so even if you don’t love your work, remember that regardless of your trade, you always represent his kingdom. This means all our labor can glorify God and fulfill our true purpose in life. Our final reward is much greater than our paycheck.
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.
(Colossians 3:23-24)