Proverbs 22:13

The slacker says, "There is a lion outside! I will be slain in the streets!"

Study Bible

The slacker says
This phrase introduces the character of the "slacker," often translated as "sluggard" in other versions. In biblical context, a slacker is someone who is habitually lazy or avoids work. Proverbs frequently contrasts the diligent with the sluggard, emphasizing the value of hard work and responsibility (Proverbs 6:6-11). The slacker's behavior is often used as a cautionary example, warning against the spiritual and practical dangers of laziness.

“There is a lion outside!
This part of the verse highlights the irrational excuses made by the slacker to avoid work. In ancient Israel, lions were indeed present in the region, as noted in 1 Samuel 17:34-37, where David recounts his encounters with lions while shepherding. However, the likelihood of encountering a lion in the streets was minimal, making this an exaggerated excuse. This reflects the tendency of the slacker to create unrealistic fears to justify inaction, a behavior that can be seen as a metaphor for avoiding spiritual responsibilities.

I will be slain in the streets!”
The slacker's claim of being slain in the streets further illustrates the absurdity of his excuse. Streets in ancient cities were typically bustling with activity, making it an unlikely place for a lion attack. This hyperbolic statement underscores the slacker's avoidance of duty and responsibility. Biblically, this can be connected to the idea of spiritual sloth, where one avoids the call to live out their faith actively. The New Testament echoes this sentiment, urging believers to be vigilant and active in their faith (1 Thessalonians 5:6). The slacker's fear of being slain can also be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual death that results from a life of inaction and neglect of one's duties.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Sluggard
A person characterized by laziness and a lack of initiative. In Proverbs, the sluggard is often depicted as someone who makes excuses to avoid work or responsibility.

2. The Lion
Symbolically represents an exaggerated or irrational fear used as an excuse to avoid action. In the context of ancient Israel, lions were real threats, but the sluggard uses this as a hyperbolic excuse.

3. The Streets
Represents the public sphere or the place of action and responsibility. The sluggard's fear of the streets symbolizes avoidance of societal duties or personal responsibilities.

Teaching Points

Excuses vs. Reality
The sluggard's claim of a lion in the streets is an exaggerated excuse to avoid responsibility. We must discern between legitimate concerns and excuses that hinder our duties.

Fear as a Barrier
Fear can be a significant barrier to fulfilling our God-given responsibilities. We should trust in God's protection and provision rather than succumbing to irrational fears.

Diligence in Duty
God calls us to be diligent and responsible in our work and daily lives. Avoiding responsibilities through excuses is contrary to biblical teaching.

Spiritual Laziness
Just as physical laziness is condemned, spiritual laziness—neglecting prayer, Bible study, and fellowship—can lead to spiritual stagnation.

Accountability
We are accountable to God for how we use our time and resources. Avoiding responsibilities through excuses can lead to missed opportunities for growth and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "lions" or excuses that people use to avoid responsibility, and how can we overcome them?

2. How does the concept of the sluggard in Proverbs 22:13 relate to the servant in the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25?

3. In what ways can fear prevent us from fulfilling our God-given duties, and how can we combat this fear with faith?

4. How can we apply the principle of diligence in our spiritual lives to avoid spiritual laziness?

5. Reflect on a time when you made an excuse to avoid a responsibility. What steps can you take to ensure you respond differently in the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 26:13-16
This passage also discusses the sluggard, highlighting their tendency to make excuses and avoid work. It reinforces the theme of laziness leading to irrational fears and inaction.

Matthew 25:24-30
The Parable of the Talents illustrates the consequences of laziness and fear. The servant who hid his talent out of fear is reprimanded, similar to the sluggard's avoidance of responsibility.

Ecclesiastes 11:4
This verse warns against waiting for perfect conditions to act, paralleling the sluggard's excuse-making as a barrier to productivity.