Just Do It

When I read a verse in Scripture, I enjoy looking at translations other than the one I use for my quiet time with the Lord or what I teach on a Sunday morning to the K-5 ministry. This Sunday, the elementary kids will hear wisdom from King Solomon, a proverb that addresses laziness. The following is a translation from the Message Bible:
 
“You lazy fool, look at an ant. Watch it closely; let it teach you a thing or two.
Nobody has to tell it what to do. All summer it stores up food; at harvest it stockpiles provisions. (Proverbs 6:6-8)”
 
There is no mystery about what Solomon communicates to his son or readers – do what you should do. The message is not only to take responsibility for the task at hand but also for yourself. Notice Solomon addresses that the ant has no leader giving the ant directions or outlining an agenda of the day. By God’s design, the ant knows from within its responsibilities; those who observe and do this will also become wise (v.6). As a twenty-something husband and father, it took me some time to understand what it means to be a responsible adult. It begins with the person (as Solomon declares) first understanding their responsibilities and then acting without being told. Also, I began observing other godly husbands and fathers who were god-fearing men – essential for maturing as a Christ-follower. Observation is a path to wise living (Proverbs 24:32).

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