"Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest." (Proverbs 6:6-8 NIV).

The Bible tells us to "Go to the ant," to "consider its ways and be wise." What observations can be made as you observe an ant colony? An inner-wisdom appears to guide the ant to be diligent in seasons of harvest. They seem to be governed by an internalized conviction that their work is essential for the world's welfare. Ants instinctively work together. Their goal cannot be accomplished alone. They demonstrate an appreciation for the contributions of each member of the work force. They have no need for external coercion or supervision. No one shouts orders to them to "Get with the program." The inner compass of instinct directs them to perform their job within the community and strive cooperatively towards the achievement of a well-understood shared goal.

Do we recognize how our 'jobs well done' in the human community make a difference the 'overall scheme of things'? It seems that what comes intuitively to those creatures on the anthill or the beavers constructing a dam, must come by a more vulnerable process to human beings. We must come to realize our goals and the value of our work by a more cognitive and volitional manner. We must learn to think clearly and choose carefully. Once we recognize our purpose, we must then act accordingly. What is the social value, and more importantly what is the longer lasting spiritual or eternal value of what we are doing?

The writer of Proverbs reminds us that our reasoning must be informed by revelation. We are made for a God-given purpose and to achieve God-given goals (Ephesians 2:10). Are we internally aligned with His values, purposes and goals?

Ken Blanchard writes in the book, "Gung Ho!", "Once people begin to see their work clearly, big things begin to happen. Bashing a chunk of metal and grinding it into conformity with an engineering drawing is one thing. Making a part for a brake on a child's bicycle is entirely different."

A printer applies the ink to the printing press and recognizes: "Just a drop of ink will make a million think." The stone-mason who at times feels that his work is endless can say, "I'm building a magnificent cathedral where people will come to worship and nurture their faith and perhaps one day my grandchildren will be married here." The mother or father who cares for the child understands that by properly bringing up that child in the ways of the Lord, they are investing in our future society.

Remember today that as you think clearly, align yourself with God-given purposes and goals you can demonstrate in a positive way how a people of faith can make a difference.

A BONUS QUOTEWORTHY: "As long as I see any thing to be done for God, life is worth having;
but O how vain and unworthy it is to live for any lower end!"

... David Brainerd's Journal [1747]