"Four things on earth are small, yet they are extremely wise: Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer." Proverbs 30:24-25
Summer is within reach now (much to the relief of many after a long, cold winter), and some of you may already be feeling the busyness of the season that warmer weather brings. During the winter, we tend to stay home more, engage less often, and mainly try to survive the colder temperatures and dodge piles of snow (and I can't blame you one bit). Winter can feel long at times, and we ache for sunnier days. We long to enjoy nature, take our little ones to local parks, go on that anticipated vacation, or finally play the sports we had to take a hiatus from. Whatever you are most looking forward to or are committed to this summer, let it not be a season where God is left home while you're out and about chasing a busy calendar.
We have talked before about making time for God in the midst of our busy lives because frankly, that's the goal of faithful living. We want to put God first so that we can enjoy the abundant life He has for us. Abundant in peace, hope, joy, wisdom, and being with your Rock through the trials and hardships. As you come out of your winter shelter, remember that summer can also be a time of renewing your relationship with God.
I found this precious verse about ants hidden within the book of Proverbs, and it touched my heart. The ants are considered wise because they store up food in the summer. Could we take a lesson from those tiny ants that we usually find to be pesky annoyances?
We, too, should consider storing up food in the summer. Spiritual food, that is. Storing up this kind of food is right and wise in the eyes of the Lord. Whatever life may bring, when we store up what we need, we are prepared. When we are filled up on spending time with God, reading the Bible, praise and worship, prayer and fasting, we will be absolutely be better equipped for whatever comes our way. Summer isn't the time we should start to starve ourselves of spirituality as we make more time for activities, events, and loved ones, but rather, it is a season where we can find refreshing ways store up righteousness, faith, and hope.
If winter has left you a little chilled, closed up, hesitant, and a bit slow, I encourage you to let your mind, body and spirit wake up to the beauty that spring and summer are bringing! Let the blooming flowers, greenery, and sunshine serve as the backdrop for spiritual rejuvenation. Store up spiritual food by chasing God rather than what's next on your to-do list. Enjoy the season, yes, and all the adventures and opportunities it brings, but do so with God front and center.
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