Scripture:
Proverbs 24:30-34 ESV
[30] I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, [31] and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. [32] Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. [33] A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, [34] and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.
Observation:
The book of Proverbs has given us several warnings about adultery and foolishness, anger, and the way we speak, now laziness. Solomon is doing his best to pass on wisdom, writing it down for generations to come. He refers to the slugged as a man who lacks sense. Someone not wise. He calls him out as easy to see. This is the man who, even though he has things to do, will just sleep. He will neglect the importance of maintaining what he has and watch it grow over and waste away. There is a reason this topic is brought up, and this is not the only time it’s mentioned. This time, it is pinpointed, though. It’s a warning.
Application:
Ok, so I have a confession to make. There are times when I just don’t have any more gas in the tank. Times when I am so tired I just have to sleep. The problem is things I know I need to get done do not get done. At this point, I live alone, and it’s hard to do it all. Mow the yard clean the house go to work not to mention the ministry GOD has placed me in don’t get me wrong I am not complaining. That’s the last thing I want to do. I am saying it’s not easy. My point is I get the point of physical exhaustion, and I just have to rest. When I get to that point, there are times when this scripture comes to my mind. A little sleep a little slumber a little folding of the hands and poverty will set in. Listen, as a man who has been homeless a few times, I’m not sure that’s what Solomon is talking about. However, I think it’s important to press on, but when you go, go, go. There has to be a point of rest, rest, rest. I must say that sometimes I think it would be nice if my yard mowed itself. but it won’t, and sometimes it gets a little long before I take the time to mow it. I am left to think about a scripture… those who wait on the LORD will renew their strength, and they will rise up like on the wings of Eagles they will run and not grow weary they will walk and not grow faint. We have to rest, but we can’t be lazy if we can we should. Being a good steward of what GOD has given us is vital. I know it’s hard, but we must press on rest when necessary. But take time to take care of the things GOD has given you.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for trusting us to take care of your stuff. The house you have given us. The car you let us drive. The people you place under our care. Let us find the energy to get it all done. We need you. We need you. We can not do it all. Help us to press on. Give us strength when we are weak. Let us know we are not alone. It’s in the mighty name of Jesus I pray amen