Topical Encyclopedia Idleness and sloth are frequently addressed in the Bible as behaviors that lead to poverty and want. The Scriptures provide numerous warnings against laziness, emphasizing the importance of diligence and hard work as virtues that align with God's design for human life.Biblical Warnings Against Idleness The Book of Proverbs, known for its practical wisdom, contains several admonitions against idleness. Proverbs 6:9-11 states, "How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and need like a bandit." This passage vividly illustrates the consequences of laziness, portraying poverty as an inevitable result of neglecting one's responsibilities. Similarly, Proverbs 10:4 declares, "Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth." Here, the contrast between idleness and diligence is stark, with the latter being associated with prosperity and the former with destitution. The emphasis is on the active pursuit of work as a means to provide for oneself and one's family. The Example of the Ant Proverbs 6:6-8 uses the example of the ant to teach the value of industriousness: "Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways and be wise. Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food at harvest." The ant, though small and seemingly insignificant, is commended for its foresight and hard work, serving as a model for human behavior. New Testament Teachings The New Testament also addresses the issue of idleness. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 , the Apostle Paul writes, "For even while we were with you, we gave you this command: If anyone is unwilling to work, he shall not eat. Yet we hear that some of you are leading undisciplined lives and accomplishing nothing but being busybodies. We command and urge such people by our Lord Jesus Christ to begin working quietly to earn their own living." Paul emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and the expectation that believers contribute to their own sustenance. Spiritual Implications Idleness is not merely a physical or economic issue but also a spiritual one. It reflects a lack of stewardship over the gifts and opportunities God provides. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus illustrates the importance of using one's abilities and resources wisely. The servant who buried his talent out of fear and laziness is rebuked and cast out, highlighting the expectation that believers actively engage in the work God has set before them. Consequences of Sloth The consequences of sloth extend beyond material poverty. Proverbs 19:15 warns, "Laziness brings on deep sleep, and an idle soul will suffer hunger." This suggests that idleness can lead to a spiritual lethargy, a state of complacency that hinders one's relationship with God and the fulfillment of His purposes. In summary, the Bible consistently portrays idleness and sloth as detrimental to both physical well-being and spiritual health. Through the wisdom of Proverbs, the teachings of the New Testament, and the parables of Jesus, Scripture calls believers to a life of diligence, responsibility, and active engagement in the work God has entrusted to them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 20:4The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 24:34 Library Treatise on the Priesthood. Book iv. Letter viii. Public and Social Worship, and Sabbath Employments. John iv. 54; v. 1 Matt. x. 34 The Hedge of Thorns and the Plain Way One Lion Two Lions no Lion at All A Caution against Various Temptations, by which the Young Convert ... A Discourse of the Building, Nature, Excellency, and Government of ... The Bliss of the Glorified A Call to Prayer and Testimony Resources Growth in Life ' Article Index | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about being nosey? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about boredom? | GotQuestions.org Idleness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Idleness and Sloth: Accompanied by Conceit Idleness and Sloth: Akin to Extravagance Idleness and Sloth: Effects of, Afford Instruction to Others Idleness and Sloth: False Excuses For Idleness and Sloth: Illustrated Idleness and Sloth: Lead to Bondage Idleness and Sloth: Lead to Disappointment Idleness and Sloth: Lead to Hunger Idleness and Sloth: Lead to Poverty Idleness and Sloth: Lead to Ruin Idleness and Sloth: Lead to Tattling and Meddling Idleness and Sloth: Lead to Want Idleness and Sloth: Produce Apathy Idleness and Sloth: Remonstrance Against Idleness and Sloth: Thessalonians Idleness: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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