“yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”
Theologians have historically taken this verse beyond the present into preparations for the future. We have looked at how a sluggard finds themselves in need while even a little bug, the ant, had enough sense to prepare for the time of year when food would not be plentiful. Many theologians see this as a challenge to prepare for coming famine, maybe in our time that would be recessions, depressions or other economic challenges. Still others see it as addressing the young to preparing for old age. As a young minister in a para church ministry I was never educated on retirement. Thankfully, unlike some, I did not opt out of the social security system when given the opportunity. Granted those who understood what that meant and were self disciplined enough to invest that amount seem even better prepared for old age. I had no idea of the principles of compound interest (Fla public school education). Today as I do the ministry I’m also aware of the possibility that one day I may not be able to earn an income. I hope that’s not the case but if it is I certainly do not want to be a burden on my family or the government. Therefore I certainly feel the reality of the ants example. You need not be a sluggard to experience the effects of poor planning for future need. The most important preparation for our future is to be sure we are in a right relationship with God not only now but certainly when this life ends. Today evaluate your level of dependence on God, completely for salvation, and how to balance that with your responsibility to prepare for the future. #BeTheEdge
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV
