6 Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! 7 It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, 8 yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. 9 How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? 10 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— 11 and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man. (Proverbs 6:6 – 11, New International Version)
27 “Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 28 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith! (Luke 12:27 – 28, New International Version)
Theme: The Wisdom of Discipline
Title: Discipline and Daisies
Reflection:
In pursuit of a disciplined lifestyle, how do we reconcile our own efforts with our need to trust and depend on God? The Bible provides wise counsel in the two passages of Scripture we are considering today.
The passage in Proverbs draws our attention to the ant. The ant epitomizes disciplined effort and reminds us of the value of hard work. God has given us the ability to acquire current and future needs through the disciplined use of our skills and abilities. He expects us to use what we have been blessed with and not be lazy.
The passage in Luke draws our attention to a wildflower (e.g., a beautiful daisy). The wildflower relies on what its environment provides, and epitomizes an inescapable dependence on God. God cares about His creation, and His ability to supply all that we need is unrivaled.
Conclusion:
The disciplined acquisition of our needs using our skills and abilities is to be applauded. However, we must be mindful of our limitations and trust God to be the ultimate supplier of our needs. We can work like the ant, but we must always have the trust of the daisy!
What are some of the pitfalls of laziness on one hand and overreliance on our efforts on the other hand? Do any biblical examples come to mind? I would love to hear your thoughts.
Contributor: Norman Christie