December 29, 2021

“Go to the ant, you slacker! Observe its ways and become wise. Without a leader, administrator, or ruler, it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food during harvest.” – Psalm 6:6-8

There are many passages where the Bible does not pull any punches. Psalm 6 is one of those passages. Any time a Bible verse starts with “you slacker!”, it’s easy to get your feathers ruffled. But I encourage you today to take a close look at Psalm 6:6-8. The example for us in this passage is the ant, who works studiously even though there is no one forcing him or telling him what to do. The ant makes sure he prepares far ahead of time for the lean months. He makes sure he has plenty of provisions for the difficult days ahead.

Now, when we look at that passage, our mind probably goes immediately to our material provisions. In that area, many of us would say, “I’m no slacker! I’m on top of things.” But let me ask you today; can the same be said about your spiritual preparation? We have gone through great trials over the last two years. Were you prepared, or did that spiritual winter sneak up on you? I encourage you today, as we approach a brand-new year, to set your spiritual provisions in place now. Make a commitment to time in the Word, prayer, and fellowship and worship with your brothers and sisters in Christ. There is no one who will rule over you in this area or force you to comply. However, I can guarantee you, there will be spiritual winters ahead. Get ready now so that you may be at peace when the difficult times come.

Mighty God and Lord of our lives, give us the wisdom to plant and harvest spiritual abundance now so that we can lean on those provisions in difficult times.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Shane Cannon