Preaching on Look At The Ant Proverbs 30:24, 25
Today we turn our attention to a small but mighty creature, the ant, to glean profound wisdom for our own lives. Our text comes from Proverbs 30:24-25: "Four things on earth are small, yet they are exceedingly wise: the ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer." As our introduction states, these seemingly insignificant beings, strong in their own way, skillful in their tasks, hardworking in their efforts, and remarkably organized, offer us an excellent lesson in how to live in a way that pleases God.
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INTRODUCTION:
The wise proverbist directs our gaze to the natural world, reminding us that even the smallest of creatures can teach us valuable principles for life. The ant, in its diligent habits and communal existence, provides a compelling example for us to consider.
I. THE ANT IS WISE.
A. The proverbist points out that the ant is wise (Proverbs 30:24). We must observe them to learn to be wise (Proverbs 6:6), to consider their ways and be wise.
B. God desires us to be wise:
1. We must be wise for what is good (Romans 16:19). Our wisdom should be directed towards that which is righteous and pleasing to God, not towards evil.
2. A wise youth is better (Ecclesiastes 4:13). Wisdom is valuable at any age, and a young person who embraces wisdom is far better than an old and foolish king.
3. We must walk as a wise man (Ephesians 5:15). Our conduct should be characterized by discernment, understanding God's will and living accordingly.
4. We must walk wisely toward outsiders (Colossians 4:5). Our interactions with those who do not share our faith should be marked by wisdom and grace, reflecting the love of Christ.
II. ANTS HAVE INSTINCT.
Proverbs 6:7 states, "It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest."
But even so, we, who have the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the clear commands of our Lord, sometimes neglect the Lord's work, such as:
1. Preaching (Matthew 28:18-20). Sharing the good news of salvation with others is a vital task entrusted to believers.
2. Encouraging (1 Thessalonians 5:14). Building up and supporting our fellow believers in their faith journey is a crucial aspect of Christian community.
3. Visiting (James 1:27). Caring for the vulnerable, such as orphans and widows, demonstrates practical love and obedience to God.
Let us learn from the ants who diligently do their work without needing a human leader constantly directing them. They are driven by an inherent wisdom to prepare for the future.
III. ANTS COOPERATE WITH EACH OTHER AND ARE GENEROUS; THEY ARE NOT SELFISH.
The ants work together to bring large pieces of food to the anthill for the others to eat. They help each other. When one ant cannot carry a large piece, others help them carry it.
The Christian is exhorted to help their brothers:
1. Carry the load (Galatians 6:2). We are called to bear one another's burdens, fulfilling the law of Christ.
2. We who are strong should help the weak (Romans 15:1). Those who are mature in faith have a responsibility to support and uplift those who are struggling.
3. We should stir up love and good works (Hebrews 10:24). Encouraging one another towards acts of love and service strengthens the entire body of Christ.
IV. EVERY ANT HAS ITS OWN JOB, AND ALL WORK FOR THE GOOD OF THE ENTIRE COLONY.
A. Some extract protein from dead insects and animals, nectar from fruits, and honey from dead bees and abandoned honeycombs.
B. Some dig tunnels, others pile up dirt or carry building materials such as sand, wood, and fiber for the colony.
C. Other ants carry food.
D. God has given Christians responsibilities to fulfill:
1. "And He gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body" (Ephesians 4:11-12, 16). Each member of the body of Christ has a unique role to play in building up the church.
2. We must all work together for the edification of the body (Ephesians 4:16). Unity and cooperation are essential for the healthy growth of the church.
3. The body is not one member but many (1 Corinthians 12:14-29). Just as a physical body has diverse members with different functions, so too does the body of Christ.
4. There is no division in the body (1 Corinthians 12:25). Harmony and mutual care should characterize our relationships within the church.
V. ANTS DON'T WORRY; THEY INTENTLY DO EVERYTHING THEY HAVE TO DO DAY AFTER DAY.
A. They prepare their food in the summer so they won't be anxious in the winter (Proverbs 6:8). Their foresight and diligence ensure their provision in due season.
B. Christians are exhorted not to worry or be concerned about food, drink, and clothing (Matthew 6:25, 32-33). Our focus should be on seeking God's kingdom and trusting in His provision.
1. It would be in vain to worry (Psalm 39:6). Anxiety cannot add a single hour to our lives and often distracts us from trusting God.
2. We should not worry about acquiring riches (Proverbs 23:4). The pursuit of wealth can lead to anxiety and distract us from true treasures.
3. Worrying chokes the word (Luke 8:14). The cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches can hinder the growth of God's Word in our hearts.
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- Preaching on Laziness Romans 12:11
- Preaching on Spiritual Stagnation in the Christian Life
CONCLUSION:
A. Let us learn from the ants; although they are very small, they are very hardworking. Their size does not limit their diligence and productivity.
B. Ants do not have bosses; they are wise, they cooperate with each other, they are not selfish, they do not worry, etc. Their inherent wisdom, communal spirit, selflessness, and lack of anxiety provide a powerful example for us.
C. Let us learn from this example to please God. By emulating the ant's wisdom, diligence, cooperation, generosity, and trust, we can live lives that are pleasing to our Heavenly Father. May we be inspired by this tiny creature to greater faithfulness and service. Amen.
