Summer Jobs

(Proverbs 10:5 KJV)  He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.

The believer “gathereth” (103) when he can.  This can be serendipity or routine.  In the serendipity sense it is telling us to be alert to unexpected opportunities.  Wisdom involves timing.  I think of a story that is probably too true.  A couple have just had their first child.  The young mother is totally exhausted by the process.  The struggle and pain are very fresh on her mind.  The young father is gushing and excited about this new addition to his life.  In his enthusiasm he says something like, “Let’s have another one!”  Although having another child is a great idea, it is not a wise statement at that moment. 

Timing is critical.  I can’t say it is everything.  You need truth and resources also.  But it is vital to success.  When do you witness to an unbeliever?  When do you teach your child to ride a bicycle?  When do you ask someone to marry you?  Wisdom will help in these things.

Timing sometimes involves asking “What is right for this time?”  rather than “Is this a good time for doing this?”  Do you see the difference?  In one case you look at the situation and respond.  If it is summer you don’t look for the best time to shovel snow.  God wants you to be salt in the situation you face.  In the second case you are simply looking for a situation to adapt to your need.  Too often we have our own agenda and are busy looking for the “right” time to push it. 

In the more specific sense it means to do your job.  Your life has summers and harvests.  It also has winter and spring.  There are certain events that we should plan on based on knowing how life progresses.  You may need to find a bigger house.  You may need to find a new job.  There are things you know are coming.  Be reading when the season for them comes.  This involves discipline and planning.