7 Things That We Can Learn From the Ant

(1) Ants have initiative.

It doesn't need anyone to motivate it. It is a self-motivator. They move towards the destiny and purpose that they are called to.

Set your mind on things above, not on things on the ^cearth.^[1] (Col 3:2). 

Looking unto Jesus the author^a and finisher of our faith.^[2] (Heb 12:2).

(2) Ants can discern times and seasons.

Teach us to number our days,

                         That we may gain a heart of wisdom^[3] (Ps. 90:12).

(3) Ants can carry the load that is two to three times its weight.

I have thought of an interesting picture. We are like the little ant carrying our individual load. Sometimes, we feel that our energy is far spent. We may think that we are not able to walk the next step with the immensity of the burden. The most amusing and comforting thought is that God is actually helping us to carry the load with His finger as we are carrying the load. Indeed, it is not by might, nor by power but by His spirit.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”^[4] (2 Cor 12:9).

(4) Ants ignore the past and present. They keep focus on the future.

I really like Pastor Nicky's illustration of how we would disturb the ant when it is set on course to carry its food back to its colony.

This brings back vivid memories of my childhood. I remembered how I would disturb the ants or blow them away from their path. Despite the numerous failed attempts to blow it off its path, how its firm grip persevered to stay on course truly amazes me. What great determination and perseverance!

May we learn from these little creatures to persevere, forgetting the past and to press on towards what is ahead!

^14 ^xI press toward the goal for the prize of ^ythe upward call of God in Christ Jesus. ^[5] (Phil 3:14).

(5) Ants work quietly

I really love this reminder that we seek not the praises and acceptance of man. May we be God's faithful workers…may our souls desire is to seek His Kingdom and His righteousness. May we bring delight and pleasure unto the Lord.

^aSeek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. ^34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.^[6] (Mt 6:33-34).

(6) Each ant [contributes to] its colony.

^7 ⁿI have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.^[7] (2 Tim. 4:7).

(7) Ants have perseverance

He who has begun ^ea good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ^[8] (Phil 1:6).

Excerpts from blog "Strength and Beauty in Christ", Girlfriends in God, P.O. Box 725, Matthews, NC 28106.  http://marymzxw.multiply.com/journal/item/216, 25 Jan 08.