Consider the Ant
Have you ever paused to observe a colony of ants at work? Ant hills have always caught my attention. It’s captivating to sit on the ground, close to a mound, and observe their somewhat frantic activity and hard labor. However, do not be fooled. These small creatures have an organized community, and they always work together.
Each member has specific assignments, and they faithfully complete their work tasks. The female ants feed the queen and larvae, take out the trash, search for food, and even defend the colony. I feel a sense of curiosity as I observe their movements.
Consider the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.
- Proverbs 6:6
The author of Proverbs points to the ant and says, “Take some time and think about this. The ant works hard even though no prince or governor tells her what to do. She gathers food in the summer and prepares for the winter.”
This simple verse in Proverbs directs our attention to the ant—a small creature—and indicates there are lessons we can learn. The word " consider” has a deep and rich meaning.
Watch and observe.
Contemplate and ponder.
Examine and evaluate.
After we ponder, examine, and watch this small creature at work, the author instructs us to be wise. God has filled this world—His creation—with many demonstrations that provide advice, instruction, and guidance for those who observe. Do we stop long enough to notice? He has intentionally planned each detail of His world for beauty and pleasure. Yes, but also for our instruction and good counsel.
Based on Psalm 148, the words to All Creatures of Our God and King were written by St. Francis in 1225. Following are a few of the phrases from this well-known hymn:
All creatures of our God and King,
Lift up your voice and with us sing,
O praise Him, Alleluia!
Let all things their Creator bless,
And worship Him in humbleness,
O praise Him, Alleluia!
Praise, praise the Father, praise the Son,
And praise the Spirit, three in One:
O praise Him, O praise Him!
Head to Heart
Please take some time to open your Bible and read Psalm 148. It is important to consider and observe God's creation. After reading this Psalm, where do your thoughts go? Is your heart drawn to praise the Lord?
When was the last time you took a nature walk or sat outside just to observe God’s creation? Let me encourage you to schedule an appointment and appreciate the beauty of the Creator's world. Then, sing praises to our God and King!
All Creatures of Our God and King –
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