Topical Bible: The Lion of Imaginary Fears of the Slothful

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Topical Encyclopedia

The phrase "Lion of Imaginary Fears of the Slothful" refers to a concept derived from the biblical depiction of the slothful or lazy person who conjures up exaggerated fears to justify inaction. This idea is primarily drawn from the Book of Proverbs, which often contrasts the diligent with the slothful, highlighting the latter's tendency to avoid responsibility and work through irrational excuses.

Biblical Context

The primary scripture associated with this concept is Proverbs 22:13, which states, "The sluggard says, 'There is a lion outside! I will be slain in the streets!'" . This verse illustrates the slothful person's tendency to fabricate dangers to avoid fulfilling their duties. The "lion" here symbolizes an exaggerated or imaginary threat that serves as an excuse for laziness.

Similarly, Proverbs 26:13 echoes this sentiment: "The sluggard says, 'There is a lion in the road! A fierce lion roaming the public square!'" . This repetition underscores the absurdity of the slothful person's claims, as the likelihood of encountering a lion in the streets is minimal, especially in the context of ancient Israel.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the "Lion of Imaginary Fears" serves as a metaphor for the spiritual and moral dangers of slothfulness. Laziness is not merely a lack of physical activity but a deeper spiritual malaise that can lead to missed opportunities for growth and service. The slothful person's reliance on imaginary fears reflects a lack of faith and trust in God's provision and protection.

The Bible consistently encourages diligence and hard work as virtues that honor God and benefit the community. Proverbs 6:6-11, for example, advises, "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" . This passage contrasts the industriousness of the ant with the slothfulness of the lazy, urging believers to emulate the ant's diligence.

Practical Application

In practical terms, the "Lion of Imaginary Fears" can be seen as a caution against allowing fear and anxiety to paralyze action. Believers are encouraged to confront their fears with faith and to trust in God's guidance and strength. The New Testament reinforces this idea in 2 Timothy 1:7, which states, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline" .

By recognizing and overcoming these imaginary fears, Christians are called to live lives of purpose and productivity, contributing to the Kingdom of God and serving others. The slothful person's excuses are a reminder of the importance of vigilance against complacency and the need for active engagement in one's spiritual and earthly responsibilities.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 22:13
The slothful man said, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 26:13
The slothful man said, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

One Lion Two Lions no Lion at All
... fear is, frightened at their own shadows, troubled with imaginary ills ... with you,
can you not contend with the lion and destroy ... With sins and doubts, and fears.". ...
//christianbookshelf.org/spurgeon/sermons on proverbs/one lion two lions no.htm

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners:
... clothes; he madly fought, striking at imaginary shades with ... hill Mizar." He remembered
also the lion and the ... temptations, and of my great fears of perishing ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/grace abounding to the chief.htm

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
... [Second.] In the next place, we are here presented with some of the qualities of
the wicked and the righteous; the wicked has his fears, the righteous has his ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm

Of Prayer --A Perpetual Exercise of Faith. The Daily Benefits ...
... we might otherwise be listless and slothful, in asking ... was often mingled with doubts
and fears, so that ... heaven to holiness, holiness not imaginary, but eternal ...
/.../the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 20 of prayera perpetual.htm

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm

part ii
... who ever seeks, like a roaring lion, to devour ... of everything and everybody is"the
imaginary life; whilst ... that which it despises, which it fears (for instance ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

part i
... Let the following considerations also help you in your doubt or unbelief: I ask
of God, firstly, that which already exists, and nothing merely imaginary not a ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm