Learn from the Ant: Wisdom in Preparation (Proverbs 6)

Proverbs 6:6-11

The ways of the ant are deemed wise. Her intelligence is seen in the simple acts of providing and gathering. When observing ants, they always seem to be rushing back and forth. This is not random, there is a purpose to their hurrying about. The ant prepares herself for that which is to come. In contrast, the sluggard’s ways are considered foolish. Due to a lack of effort, the slothful find themselves unprepared. While the ant provides and gathers, the sluggard slumbers. The sluggard is instructed to pay close attention to the wise ways of the ant and therefore set aside his foolish behavior. The consequences for failing to do so, poverty and need. The application fits perfectly regarding the parable of the wise and foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13. The 5 who were wise provided and gathered like the ant and were prepared. The 5 foolish ones slumbered and found themselves in need when the bridegroom came.  Matthew 25:10 says, only those who were “ready” entered the marriage feast. When the door was shut, the foolish (aka the sluggards) found themselves on the outside. Consider the ways of the ant and be wise.