Topical Bible: Industry: The Slothful Devoid of

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In the biblical context, industry is often associated with diligence, hard work, and the responsible stewardship of one's time and resources. The Scriptures frequently contrast the industrious with the slothful, highlighting the virtues of labor and the pitfalls of laziness. The slothful, or lazy, are depicted as lacking industry, which leads to various negative consequences both spiritually and materially.

Proverbs on Slothfulness and Industry

The Book of Proverbs provides numerous insights into the nature of slothfulness and its consequences. Proverbs 6:6-11 admonishes the slothful to learn from the ant: "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; she gathers her food at harvest. 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 emphasizes the self-motivation and foresight of the ant, contrasting it with the sluggard's tendency towards procrastination and neglect. The industrious nature of the ant serves as a model for human behavior, encouraging proactive and diligent work.

Consequences of Slothfulness

The Bible warns of the dire consequences that befall those who are devoid of industry. Proverbs 10:4 states, "Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth." This verse underscores the direct correlation between laziness and poverty, as well as the prosperity that can result from diligent work.

Proverbs 12:24 further contrasts the outcomes of diligence and laziness: "The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor." Here, the industrious are depicted as rising to positions of leadership and influence, while the slothful are subjected to servitude and lack of autonomy.

Spiritual Implications

Beyond material consequences, slothfulness also has spiritual implications. The New Testament echoes the call to industry in the life of a believer. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 , Paul addresses the issue of idleness: "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."

This passage highlights the expectation for Christians to lead disciplined and productive lives, contributing to their communities and avoiding the pitfalls of idleness. The call to work is not merely for personal gain but is seen as a reflection of one's faith and commitment to living a life that honors God.

The Virtue of Diligence

The Bible consistently upholds diligence as a virtue, encouraging believers to pursue their tasks with dedication and excellence. Colossians 3:23 instructs, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men." This verse elevates the concept of work, framing it as an act of worship and service to God.

In summary, the biblical perspective on industry and slothfulness presents a clear dichotomy: the industrious are rewarded with prosperity, leadership, and spiritual fulfillment, while the slothful face poverty, subjugation, and spiritual stagnation. The Scriptures call believers to embrace diligence, viewing their labor as an integral part of their faith journey.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 24:30,31
I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/homily xii thanksgiving to god.htm

Of Prayer --A Perpetual Exercise of Faith. The Daily Benefits ...
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may exercise us, when we might otherwise be listless and slothful, in asking ...
/.../the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 20 of prayera perpetual.htm