The Tortoise and the Hare

Reading for Today: Proverb Chapter 30

Gold Nugget

Verse 25: “The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their food in the summer.”

Commentary

I liken this illustration concerning ants to the story of the tortoise and the hare. An unlikely character that accomplishes what the likely character seems more apt to do. Without rehearsing a story you’re already familiar with, we will just summarize by saying, the most gifted and talented “person” did not win the race. Although the hare was more skilled, talented, and physically fit, he was also, more egotistical, self-centered and assuming. The tortoise was not as flashy, exciting or popular, but he was committed and long suffering. He was not distracted by what the world around him had to offer. While he never could‘ve beaten the hare outright, he endured long enough to see the hare fall. Much like today’s “gold nugget”, “The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their food in the summer.”

Although they don’t have a ruler to oversee them (Proverbs 6:6-8) they stay focused on the path of obedience and finish strong. We often fall into one of these categories. Many of us have natural God given talents and skills that should enables us to accomplish great things for Him, but it’s often those very gifts that He fashioned us with that replace Him and His plan. Like the rabbit, we are so consumed with our gifts and talents that less gifted and talented people finish ahead of us. I don’t know where you fit in the scenario. Maybe you are the hare that has been given much ability to accomplish great things, but know you need to repent and turn back to your Maker's plan. Others may be the tortoise. You may not think you look good or gain much attention or even appreciation, but just keep pressing on. You will finish the race that some only start.

Prayer

Lord, often I feel like the hare. You have given me certain abilities and talents, but I have too often been distracted by this world and its pleasures. Help me to be slow to sin and quick to repent. Remind me that this isn’t a sprint. This journey is a marathon.  Amen

If you are reading this devotional in an e-mail and would like to post a comment, click on this link http://proverbfortoday.org/