Topical Encyclopedia Industry, in the context of biblical teaching, refers to diligent and productive labor that results in the increase of material wealth and resources. The Bible consistently highlights the virtue of hard work and its role in the prosperity of individuals and communities. This entry explores the biblical perspective on industry and its connection to the increase of substance.Biblical Foundations The concept of industry is deeply rooted in the creation narrative, where God Himself is depicted as a worker. In Genesis 2:15, God places Adam in the Garden of Eden "to work it and keep it," establishing the principle that human beings are designed to engage in productive labor. This divine mandate underscores the importance of industry as a means of stewardship over God's creation. Proverbs on Industry The Book of Proverbs, known for its practical wisdom, frequently addresses the theme of industry. Proverbs 10:4 states, "Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth." This verse highlights the direct correlation between industriousness and the accumulation of wealth. Similarly, Proverbs 12:11 declares, "He who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies lacks judgment." Here, the emphasis is on the tangible benefits of hard work as opposed to the futility of laziness or unrealistic pursuits. Proverbs 13:4 further reinforces this idea: "The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the soul of the diligent is fully satisfied." The diligent person, through consistent effort, achieves satisfaction and abundance, while the lazy person remains unfulfilled. New Testament Insights The New Testament also affirms the value of industry. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10, the Apostle Paul instructs, "If anyone is unwilling to work, neither shall he eat." This directive underscores the expectation that believers should engage in productive labor to provide for themselves and others. Paul's own example as a tentmaker (Acts 18:3) further illustrates the dignity and necessity of work. Ephesians 4:28 encourages believers to "labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with those in need." This passage not only highlights the personal benefits of industry but also its communal implications, as it enables generosity and support for those in need. Industry and Stewardship The biblical view of industry is closely tied to the concept of stewardship. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus illustrates the importance of using one's resources and abilities wisely. The servants who diligently invest their master's money are rewarded, while the one who buries his talent out of fear is rebuked. This parable emphasizes that industry is a form of faithful stewardship, leading to an increase in substance and divine approval. Warnings Against Sloth While the Bible commends industry, it also warns against the dangers of sloth and idleness. Proverbs 6:6-11 admonishes, "Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways and be wise... A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man." This vivid imagery serves as a cautionary reminder of the consequences of neglecting industriousness. Conclusion The biblical perspective on industry is clear: diligent and productive labor is a virtue that leads to the increase of substance. Through industry, individuals fulfill their God-given mandate to work, provide for themselves and others, and exercise faithful stewardship over the resources entrusted to them. The Bible's teachings on industry encourage believers to embrace hard work as a means of honoring God and contributing to the well-being of their communities. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 13:11Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathers by labor shall increase. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Shod for the Road On Friendship with the World The General Conference of 1832 Home-Education. The Universal Chorus Of the Sacraments. Thanksgiving after Chastisement. Homilies on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. Concerning the Ministry. Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &C. Resources When can music be considered 'Christian music'? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about procrastination? | GotQuestions.org How can I overcome an addiction to internet porn? Can addiction to pornography be defeated? | GotQuestions.org Industry: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Industry: Characteristic of Godly Women Industry: Early Rising Necessary To Industry: General Scriptures Concerning Industry: Leads to Affection of Relatives Industry: Leads to General Commendation Industry: Leads to Increase of Substance Industry: Required of Man After the Fall Industry: Required of Man in a State of Innocence Industry: Requisite to Supply: Our own Wants Industry: Requisite to Supply: Wants of Others Industry: The Slothful Devoid of Industry: To be Suspended on the Sabbath Related Terms |
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