What excuses do we make similar to "a lion in the road"? Setting the Scene Proverbs 22:13; 26:13 “The sluggard says, ‘There is a lion outside! I will be slain in the streets!’” The Excuse in Solomon’s Day • A real lion in the city streets was virtually impossible; the sluggard invents danger to justify staying in bed. • The statement shifts focus from responsibility (work) to self-preservation (fear). • Behind the words lies unbelief in God’s protection and neglect of God-given duties (cf. Genesis 3:17-19; 2 Thessalonians 3:10). Modern “Lions in the Road” • “I could share the gospel, but people might think I’m judgmental.” (Romans 1:16) • “I’d serve at church, yet I’m too busy and might burn out.” (Ephesians 5:15-17) • “I’ll start tithing once I make more money; right now the bills are too scary.” (Malachi 3:10) • “Marriage is risky; I might choose the wrong person, so I’ll keep dating indefinitely.” (Proverbs 18:22) • “I want to disciple my children, but I’m no Bible expert—what if I mess them up?” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7) • “I’d reconcile, yet the conversation might explode—better to avoid it.” (Matthew 5:23-24) • “I know I should forgive, but I might get hurt again.” (Ephesians 4:32) • “I’ll pursue that ministry call when life settles; the timing isn’t safe now.” (Luke 9:59-62) Roots Behind the Excuses • Fear magnified beyond reality (Numbers 13:31-33). • Laziness cloaked in cautious language (Proverbs 20:4). • Pride preferring comfort over obedience (James 4:17). • Doubt in God’s sovereignty and goodness (Matthew 6:31-33). Consequences of Feeding the Excuses • Stagnant spiritual growth (Hebrews 5:12-14). • Missed opportunities prepared by God (Ephesians 2:10). • Increased fear; the “lion” grows larger in the mind (Proverbs 26:14). • Loss of testimony and stewardship (Matthew 25:24-30). God’s Antidote: Courageous Obedience • Remember God’s presence: “Be strong and courageous… for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) • Act on clear commands first, feelings second (John 14:15). • Trust His provision in the face of perceived risk (Philippians 4:19). • Walk by faith, not sight—faith shrinks “lions” to size (2 Corinthians 5:7). Practical Steps Toward Action 1. Identify the specific “lion” excuse you are using. 2. Search Scripture for God’s promise that addresses that fear. 3. Share the excuse with a mature believer for accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). 4. Take one concrete step of obedience within 24 hours. 5. Record God’s faithfulness to silence future excuses (Psalm 77:11-12). |
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