The Ant (Prov. 6:6-11)

photo: reuters.com

Read Proverbs 6:6-11.

1.  Its initiative.  An ant is not independent or rebellious but takes initiative.  It doesn't wait for another ant to tell it what to do.  It does intentionally and consistently what an ant was made to do. Don't wait for someone else to tell you what you already know you should be doing.

2.  Its diligence.  An ant is always mindful of its opportunity, understanding the current "season" and exerting itself accordingly.  When you work, work hard.  Apply yourself.  Don't rest when it is work time.

The Unprofitable Servant (Mt. 25:30)

Read Matthew 25:30.

In context (Mt. 25:24-27), "unprofitable" (Mt. 25:30) is not defined by lack of results but by lack of effort.  The Master did not give this servant a trust he couldn't manage (Mt. 25:15).  What's behind the lack of effort?

• Comparison with others.  Remember, you don't have another man's assignment, gifts, perspective, history, education, etc.  Faithfulness is about implementation before it is about increase.
• A skewed perspective of the Master.  Yes, He is exacting, but He is also fair and loving. Remember, He didn't have to entrust you with anything!
• Self-pity.  Your assignment isn't as glamorous as someone else's.  You get easily discouraged and believe subconsciously that you don't deserve success.  All you can talk about are failure and hardship.
• Laziness.  The assignment becomes about preservation rather than expansion.  You get easily overwhelmed, so you pull back and keep things safe and manageable.  You enjoy talking about hard work but that's all you do -- talk.
• Suspicion of the "successful."  You think that, somehow, others are in an ideal environment or have an unfair advantage.  It is actually envy that is at work here.  Because you are envious, you won't reach out for help.