We were created to work and be productive. God designed us that way. He is creative, so He put that part of His nature in us. In fact, that is such a strong part of who we are that He gave us the opportunity, and even the command to rest one day a week. Yet, even though it is literally in our DNA to produce, in a world broken by sin, there is a spirit of laziness that attacks us. It is more successful in some of us than others. It ruins men and families... and entire cultures. In the book of Proverbs (wise sayings) we find this warning... I went by the field of a slacker and by the vineyard of a man lacking sense. Thistles had come up everywhere, weeds covered the ground, and the stone wall was ruined. I saw, and took it to heart; I looked, and received instruction: a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the arms to rest, and your poverty will come like a robber, your need, like a bandit. (Proverbs 24:30-34) It is one thing to be patient, or a plodder. It is another thing to be a slacker. Scripture instructs us to not be anxious. We are not to wear out our souls trying to do what only God can do in our life. We aren't to try and create miracles. The Bible frowns on those who put too much confidence in their own ability to take care of themselves. But it never praises laziness. Being a slacker is being a poor steward of the things God entrusts to us. It is disrespectful to God to not take care of our business when we have the ability to do so. It is even disobedience. Unfortunately, laziness is a serious issue today. Too many people would rather not work and let someone else take care of them. The apostle Paul gives this scorching statement about slackers... "If anyone does not provide for his own, that is his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." (1 Timothy 5:8) In our efforts to be compassionate, we must be careful to not mask or remove the natural consequences of laziness. Sometimes when we want to help someone who has lost everything, we are actually helping them not face their problem, which may not be the loss, but the laziness that led to the loss. Today, do not be a slacker. Go after success the proper way. Look for opportunities. Work hard. Sacrifice. Trust God with the increase. And watch God bless your efforts as His faithfulness meets your faithfulness. [Bible quotes are from the Holman Christian Standard Bible, unless otherwise noted.] Find more of David’s work at Heart Of Ministry. Yep... if you have a family, and you aren't taking care of them... you are worse than a person who doesn't believe in God. So, not only does being a slacker rob you of your material wealth as we see in Proverbs, but it also robs you of your spiritual standing before God and man. Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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AuthorMy name is David, and I want to know God more, and help other people find Him. Archives
March 2019
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