Although the world is constantly changing, in some ways there is nothing new under the sun. Our world may be very different than it was 2000 years ago, but the Bible contains life principles that are as valid today as they were back then.

The Book of Proverbs is particularly instructive. It contains advice for success that is applicable to every area of life. Solomon's Proverbs contain numerous principles derived from the observation of human life and human interaction, which have been proven in practice over long periods of time.

The ant, one of the smallest creatures of God, taught King Solomon one of the first principles to be applied for success in business and life: "Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, Which, having no captain, overseer or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest. How long will you slumber, O sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep?" (Proverbs 6:6-9).

Solomon tells us that we can learn a lot about success in life from the little ant. First of all, the ant does not need a boss. It knows what needs to be done and does it. The lesson from Solomon's description of ant existence is the following: If you want to be successful, you have to make an effort. The ant seems to instinctively know that its well-being depends on diligence. Many people do not seem to realize that this principle applies to them as well.

Solomon encourages us to learn from all the behaviors we observe. He wants us to identify the link between cause and effect so that we know which path leads to success and which leads to poverty. "I went by the field of the lazy man, and by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; and there it was, all overgrown with thorns; its surface was covered with nettles; its stone wall was broken down. When I saw it, I considered it well; I looked on it and received instruction: a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest; so shall your poverty come like a prowler, and your need like an armed man" (Proverbs 24:30-34).

In the Book of Proverbs we read repeatedly that success requires diligence. "In all labor there is profit, but idle chatter leads only to poverty" (Proverbs 14:23).

Can we learn from the example of the ant? Or have these verses about the ant and diligence been written only for those who have not yet been called?

With these thoughts I wish everyone a rewarding Sabbath!