1. We look for big things and want to do big things and as a result many little things go unnoticed 2Kings 5:13 In overlooking the little things, we miss some great lessons

2. Big things do not always teach the biggest lessons or accomplish the best results Matt 10:42 The wisdom of four little creatures teach us some valuable lessons

3. LESSON FROM THE ANT (PREPARATION) Prov 30:24-28

4. LESSON FROM THE ANT (PREPARATION) – Diligent preparation (v. 25) Prov 6:6-8 “A people” -- “They live in communities regulated by definite laws, each member bearing a well defined and separate part of the work of the colony” (American International Encyclopedia) Prov 30:24-28

5. LESSON FROM THE ANT (PREPARATION) – Christians should profit from the ant’s wisdom Work during summer of life Jer 8:20 Lost opportunity regretted Matt 25:1-10 Begin early Eccl 12:1 Time coming when work ceases Jhn 9:4 Time for rest in eternity Rev 14:13 Prov 30:24-28

6. LESSON FROM THE ANT (PREPARATION) – Stores food in a safe place Matt 6:19-20; 1Tim 6:17 Prov 30:24-28

7. LESSON FROM THE CONIES (REFUGE) Prov 30:24-28

8. LESSON FROM THE CONIES (REFUGE) – A sure refuge (v. 26) Psa 104:18 – God is and has been man’s refuge since the beginning Psa 46:1; 94:22 – Christ is our rock and our refuge Jer 10:23; Isa 28:15; 2Cor 1:9; 1Tim 6:17; Matt 15:9 Prov 30:24-28

9. LESSON FROM THE CONIES (REFUGE) – Our refuge is in the body of Christ - established on a sure foundation (bed rock) Matt 16:18; Acts 4:11; Eph 2:20; 1Pet 2:4-5 Song: “He Hideth My Soul” Prov 30:24-28

10. LESSON FROM LOCUST (COOPERATION) Prov 30:24-28

11. LESSON FROM LOCUST (COOPERATION) – Unity and cooperation (v. 27) Devastation of locust in Egypt Ex 10:14-15 Prov 30:24-28

12. LESSON FROM LOCUST (COOPERATION) – Lessons for the church Strength is dissipated in division Matt 12:25; We must speak the same thing 1Cor 1:10-13 If locust can cooperate without a king, surely we can with one Prov 30:24-28

13. LESSON FROM SPIDER (PERSEVERANCE) Prov 30:24-28

14. LESSON FROM SPIDER (PERSEVERANCE) – Fearless labor and perseverance (v. 28) – Christians must have perseverance and courage A fearless labor Matt 10:28 Endurance to end Matt 24:13 Use our abilities not hide them Matt 25 Prov 30:24-28

16. Prepare now by taking advantage of opportunities in “summer” 2Cor 6:2 Take refuge in Christ (Rock) Gal 3:27 Cooperate with God’s people 1Cor 1:10 Persevere to the end and the reward is yours Rev 2:10 Prov 30:24-28