What are the seven deadly sins?

[Patriot]

What does the Bible say about procrastination?​

ANSWER

Procrastination is “the act of willfully delaying the doing of something that should be done,” and in some people it is a habitual way of handling any task. While the word itself is not found in the Bible, we can find some principles to help guide us.

Sometimes, procrastination is the result of laziness, and the Bible has plenty to say about that. The Bible commends hard work and industry (Proverbs 12:24; 13:4) and warns against sloth and slackness (Proverbs 15:19; 18:9). One cure for procrastination is more diligence, regardless of the task. The Christian should be supremely motivated to be diligent in his work, since he is ultimately serving the Lord. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23). If we put our hearts into our work, as this verse says to do, we will probably find it difficult to procrastinate too much.

The Bible says that when it comes to some things, we should never delay. Jesus taught that reconciling with an offended brother should be done immediately upon our remembrance of the situation (Matthew 5:23-24). He also said to “settle matters quickly” with our adversaries (verse 25). However distasteful it may be to pursue peace with an enemy, we must avoid stalling. Similarly, we are instructed, “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry” (Ephesians 4:26). Dealing appropriately with our anger is a matter of great importance, and we must not put it off until tomorrow, which will give the devil “a foothold” (verse 27).

Christians must not procrastinate when it comes to sharing the gospel with the lost. There is no time to waste. Jesus likened evangelistic efforts to a man inviting people to a great banquet. As he sent out his servants with the invitations, he said, “Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame” (Luke 14:21). The most striking qualities of the invitation are its openness (anyone and everyone was invited) and its urgency (the call to the feast must go out “quickly”).

Some people, upon hearing the gospel and knowing their spiritual need, delay in making a response. This is the most dangerous type of procrastination. Life is short, and we do not know what will happen tomorrow (James 4:13-14). The Bible urges us to get right with God today. “See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. As has just been said: ‘Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion’” (Heb 3:12-13, 15). To procrastinate and put off getting right with God is to harden one’s own heart.

Jesus could return at any time; we do not know when (Luke 12:40). Our Lord illustrated the importance of being prepared for His coming in Matthew 25:1-13. In this parable, ten virgins await the arrival of the bridegroom and the commencement of the wedding feast. Five of the virgins were prepared for his arrival; five did not attempt to prepare until it was too late, and they were left behind. Jesus calls the unprepared virgins “foolish”; one reason they were unprepared may have been that they procrastinated.

So in the matter of our spiritual life, we dare not procrastinate. It is also unwise to delay healing a broken relationship or dealing with anger. And since our service to God motivates all we do, we have no reason to procrastinate. In short, procrastination is a bad habit that can have eternal effects.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

The Fruit of the Spirit by Trask & Goodall

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[Patriot]

What are some Bible verses about idleness?​

ANSWER

1 Timothy 5:13
Besides that, they learn to be idlers, going about from house to house, and not only idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying what they should not.

Ecclesiastes 10:18
Through sloth the roof sinks in, and through indolence the house leaks.

Proverbs 19:15
Slothfulness casts into a deep sleep, and an idle person will suffer hunger.

Proverbs 13:4
The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.

2 Thessalonians 3:10
For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.

2 Thessalonians 3:11
For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies.

Proverbs 31:27
She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Proverbs 12:24
The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor.

Proverbs 24:30-34
I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.

Ezekiel 16:49
Behold, this was the guilt of your sister Sodom: she and her daughters had pride, excess of food, and prosperous ease, but did not aid the poor and needy.

Proverbs 20:13
Love not sleep, lest you come to poverty; open your eyes, and you will have plenty of bread.

Proverbs 18:9
Whoever is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys.

Proverbs 20:4
The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing.

Proverbs 10:4
A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.

Proverbs 14:23
In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty.

Proverbs 21:25
The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor.

1 Thessalonians 5:14
And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.

Matthew 12:36
I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak,

2 Thessalonians 3:6
Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.

Proverbs 6:6
Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.

Unless otherwise noted, all Bible verses are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Special thanks to OpenBible.info for the data on the most well-known Bible verses.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

The MacArthur Topical Bible: A Comprehensive Guide to Every Major Topic Found in the Bible

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

 

[Patriot]

Why does Proverbs 6:10 say “a little sleep, a little slumber” will bring poverty?​

ANSWER

If getting a good night’s rest is beneficial for maintaining overall health, why does Proverbs 6:10 say “a little sleep, a little slumber” will bring poverty? The maxim does not downplay the value of sleep. Instead, it uses “a little sleep, a little slumber” to represent the laziness that leads unavoidably to poverty and ruin.

The full passage warns, “How long will you lie there, you 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 on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man” (Proverbs 6:9–11). Notice to whom the proverb is addressed: the sluggard. The counsel is not aimed at an industrious person needing a good night’s rest; the target is the habitual sloth.

The word little before sleep and slumber and folding of the hands is meant to express sarcasm to the sluggard, who has just been asked when he plans to stop sleeping. He says he will only sleep “a little,” but a little soon turns into a lot and eventually becomes a lifestyle. Folding of the hands to rest is similar to a phrase in Ecclesiastes 4:5, which signifies foolish inactivity: “Fools fold their hands and ruin themselves.” The proverb writer combines vivid word pictures of too much sleeping and folding one’s hands in idleness to illustrate the attitude of the lazy sluggard.

The book of Proverbs often extracts moral teachings from the world of nature. In Proverbs 6:6, the writer tells the sluggard to “take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise!” (NLT). Ants are consummate examples of hard workers. They labor tirelessly and diligently despite having no taskmaster to keep them toiling.

The New Living Translations says to the lazy loafer that “poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber” (Proverbs 6:11). It doesn’t take long for shortage and debt to swoop down on a slothful person. Laziness will steal away every resource until nothing is left.

Laziness is portrayed as the epitome of foolish behavior in Proverbs (Proverbs 26:13–15). “Lazy people are soon poor; hard workers get rich. A wise youth harvests in the summer, but one who sleeps during harvest is a disgrace,” teaches Proverbs 10:4–5 (NLT). Proverbs 12:24 also contrasts the sluggard with the diligent, hardworking person: “Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave.”

The Proverbs are packed with admonitions to work hard if you want to succeed and avoid financial ruin (Proverbs 14:23; 19:15; 20:4, 13). Like the fool and the scoffer so often portrayed in the Proverbs, a lazy person believes he is wise, but his life will end in destruction because of his idleness (Proverbs 21:25–26).

The same expression, a little sleep, a little slumber, appears again in Proverbs 24:30–34, which contains a story about the danger of laziness: “I went past the field of a sluggard, past the vineyard of someone who has no sense; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.”

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul urged believers to warn the idle among them to work (1 Thessalonians 5:14). He also taught that lazy people should not be allowed to freeload: “For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: ‘The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.’ We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

The main idea of a little sleep, a little slumber is that lazy people prefer sleep over work, a propensity that ultimately leads to poverty and ruin. Thus, laziness is a sure sign of a spiritual problem. God wants His followers to be diligent in their walk of faith: “For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. . . . Be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall” (2 Peter 1:5–10, ESV; see also 2 Peter 3:14; 1 Timothy 4:14–15).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Proverbs: Baker Commentary on the Old Testament Wisdom & Psalms by Tremper Longman III

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

​

 

[Patriot]

What are some Bible verses about laziness?​

ANSWER

Proverbs 13:4
The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.

Colossians 3:23
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,

Proverbs 10:4
A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.

2 Thessalonians 3:10
For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.

Proverbs 18:9
Whoever is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys.

1 Timothy 5:8
But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Proverbs 21:25
The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor.

Proverbs 24:30-34
I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.

Proverbs 20:4
The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing.

Proverbs 20:13
Love not sleep, lest you come to poverty; open your eyes, and you will have plenty of bread.

Proverbs 19:15
Slothfulness casts into a deep sleep, and an idle person will suffer hunger.

Proverbs 12:24
The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor.

John 5:17
But Jesus answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I am working.”

Proverbs 6:6
Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.

Proverbs 26:13-16
The sluggard says, “There is a lion in the road! There is a lion in the streets!” As a door turns on its hinges, so does a sluggard on his bed. The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; it wears him out to bring it back to his mouth. The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly.

Proverbs 14:23
In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty.

James 4:17
So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.

James 1:22
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

2 Thessalonians 3:11-12
For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies. Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.

Hebrews 13:16
Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

Unless otherwise noted, all Bible verses are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Special thanks to OpenBible.info for the data on the most well-known Bible verses.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

The MacArthur Topical Bible: A Comprehensive Guide to Every Major Topic Found in the Bible

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

 

[Patriot]

What does it mean that the one who is unwilling to work shall not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10)?​

ANSWER

Second Thessalonians 3:10 reads, “For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: ‘The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.’” This verse is set in the context of 2 Thessalonians 3:6–15, which warns believers against idleness and laziness. The focus of the command is against those who refuse to work rather than those who are unable to do so.

The verses preceding the instruction to those unwilling to work relate a positive example: “You ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate” (2 Thessalonians 3:7–9). Paul and his companions did not come to the people of Thessalonica to take food or money from them but to share Christ with them. They were willing to work a side job to provide for their food.

In contrast, if any Christian worker came to a church and refused to work, Paul says not to offer him food. This instruction also had application to people within their congregation. Verses 11–12 note, “We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat.” This is the Christian work ethic. Believers are to be known for working hard, not for a lazy attitude.

Scripture often addresses sloth or laziness as sin. For example, Proverbs 18:9 says, “One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys.” Proverbs 19:15 adds, “Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless go hungry”—there is a clear link between not working and not eating in this proverb. Ecclesiastes 10:18 also notes the negative consequences of laziness: “Through laziness, the rafters sag; because of idle hands, the house leaks.”

Again, the admonition that “the one who is unwilling to work shall not eat” concerns unwillingness rather than inability. There is a difference. James 1:27 describes true religion, in part, as “look[ing] after orphans and widows in their distress.” Needy children and widows, the disabled, those with special needs, the elderly, and others who cannot earn a living are deserving of much help.

As believers, it is important that we be known for our strong work ethic and helping those in true need. We should “let [our] light shine before others, that they may see [our] good deeds and glorify [our] Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Something Needs to Change: A Call to Make Your Life Count in a World of Urgent Need by David Platt

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[Patriot]

What is a sluggard?​

ANSWER

A sluggard is someone who is habitually lazy or inactive. Such a person does not take personal responsibility for his own life. The word sluggard is used 14 times in the book of Proverbs. In each case, the Bible condemns laziness and warns of the consequences of being a sluggard.

Proverbs 6:9 asks two rhetorical questions, highlighting one of the main traits of a sluggard: “How long will you lie there, you sluggard? / When will you get up from your sleep?” Verse 6 tells the sluggard to learn a lesson from an industrious insect: “Go to the ant, you sluggard; / consider its ways and be wise!”

Proverbs 10:26 says, “As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, / so are sluggards to those who send them.” A sluggard is painful as an employee; no boss wants an inefficient sluggard in his employ.

Proverbs 13:4 states, “A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, / but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.” In this antithetical proverb, the sluggard is contrasted with the diligent. The lazy person has unfulfilled desires precisely because he fails to take action.

Proverbs 19:24 uses humor to make its point about laziness: “A sluggard buries his hand in the dish; / he will not even bring it back to his mouth!” Being too sluggish to lift a fork to the mouth—that’s true laziness!

Proverbs 20:4 says, “Sluggards do not plow in season; / so at harvest time they look but find nothing.” Because the sluggard does not work hard or plan ahead, he does not have what he needs to live. Sluggards seem not to understand the law of sowing and reaping, since they expect the benefits of labor without actually having labored.

Proverbs 21:25 repeats the theme of laziness leading to lack: “The craving of a sluggard will be the death of him, / because his hands refuse to work.”

Proverbs 22:13 paints a humorous picture of a sluggard’s excuse-making: “The sluggard says, ‘There’s a lion outside! I’ll be killed in the public square!’” This extreme excuse would be like a person today saying, “There could be a wild bear loose on the highway, so I had better not go to work.” For most people, the possibility of a rampaging bear is so remote as to be laughable—and it’s certainly no reason to skip work.

Proverbs 26:14 uses emblematic parallelism to again mock the sluggard’s love of sleep: “As the door turns on its hinges, / So does the sluggard on his bed.” The next two verses complete the picture of the slothful person: “The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; / He is weary of bringing it to his mouth again. / The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes / Than seven men who can give a discreet answer.” Of note is the sluggard’s high opinion of himself: he thinks he is smart not to work; it doesn’t matter how many reasonable arguments are brought against him, he persists in his conceit that he is a wise man.

A sluggard is a person who has the ability to work but refuses to. He lacks the drive, personal responsibility, and common sense to provide for his needs. He likes sleep and dislikes work. Sluggards are called to action, to work hard to honor God with their lives. “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Proverbs: Baker Commentary on the Old Testament Wisdom & Psalms by Tremper Longman III

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

​

 

[septuagint]

 

[Patriot]

What is the meaning of “go to the ants you sluggard” in Proverbs 6:6?​

ANSWER

Many proverbs unearth moral lessons from the world of nature. Proverbs 6:6 is one example: “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!” Here King Solomon challenges a lazy person to learn from ants, creatures who exemplify hard work, discipline, and foresight.

The Hebrew word translated “sluggard” appears fourteen times in the book of Proverbs but nowhere else in the Old Testament. In this passage, sluggard speaks of someone who is disinclined to work or exert himself. Slacker and lazybones are appropriate substitutes. According to Proverbs 21:25, the sluggard’s “hands refuse to work.” A sluggard even makes up excuses to stay in bed (Proverbs 26:13–14).

In place of “Go to the ant, you sluggard,” the New Living Translation says, “Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise!” (Proverbs 6:6). The fundamental lesson Solomon illustrates through the industry of ants is that a person can become financially ruined through laziness and irresponsibility. He points out that ants, “Though they have no prince or governor or ruler to make them work, they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the winter” (Proverbs 6:7–8, NLT).

Solomon applauds the ants for their initiative and diligence. He notes that even though they have no supervisor, they work harder than some people who have an overseer to prod them on.

“Go to the ant, you sluggard” is Solomon’s way of imploring the lazy person to consider the virtues demonstrated by the ant colony. Ants possess instinctive motivation and discipline that we can develop through wisdom. They do not labor just for the sake of staying busy; they have a prudent expectation of future needs. Elsewhere, Solomon observes that ants, while small and frail, are nevertheless wise creatures: “Ants—they aren’t strong, but they store up food all summer” (Proverbs 30:25, NLT). They gather and stockpile food in the summer months of plenty, so they will have enough to make it through the scant months of winter. “Those too lazy to plow in the right season will have no food at the harvest,” expounds Proverbs 20:4 (NLT). Hard work combined with discipline and forethought equals true wisdom, according to Solomon.

With two rhetorical questions, Solomon implores the sluggard to stop sleeping and start working: “But you, lazybones, how long will you sleep? When will you wake up? A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber” (Proverbs 6:9–11, NLT). “A little extra sleep, a little more slumber” is Solomon’s sarcastic portrait of laziness. “Folding of the hands to rest” is his word picture for idleness. These shortcomings will rob a person of every resource until nothing is left.

By saying, “Go to the ant, you sluggard,” Solomon accentuates his message with an example from nature. A wise person will see that ants are the epitome of hard work, which results in rich blessings, while laziness ends in poverty. Proverbs 10:4 agrees, “A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich” (ESV). Stern warnings to the lazy recur throughout the Proverbs: “The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied” (Proverbs 13:4, ESV). Like the fool, the sluggard thinks he is wise in his own eyes (Proverbs 26:16), but his laziness “will be the death of him” (Proverbs 21:25).

The apostle Paul echoes Solomon in the New Testament, entreating Christians “to warn those who are lazy” (1 Thessalonians 5:14). He teaches that sluggards should not be allowed to freeload, explaining, “We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10–12).

God calls us to be hardworking and diligent and to give ourselves wholly to matters of faith: “Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. . . . Make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble” (2 Peter 1:5–10; see also 2 Peter 3:14; 1 Timothy 4:14–15).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Proverbs: Baker Commentary on the Old Testament Wisdom & Psalms by Tremper Longman III

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

​

 

[Patriot]

What are some Bible verses about diligence?​

ANSWER

Proverbs 13:4
The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.

Proverbs 10:4
A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.

Galatians 6:9
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.

Proverbs 12:24
The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor.

1 Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

Proverbs 22:29
Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.

2 Peter 1:10
Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to make your calling and election sure, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall.

2 Peter 3:14
Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace.

2 Timothy 2:15
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

Ecclesiastes 9:10
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.

Proverbs 11:27
Whoever diligently seeks good seeks favor, but evil comes to him who searches for it.

James 1:12
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

Proverbs 6:6-8
Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.

Colossians 3:23
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,

Philippians 3:14
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

Exodus 15:26
Saying, “If you will diligently listen to the voice of the Lord your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, your healer.”

Proverbs 4:23
Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.

Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.

Hebrews 11:6
And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Hebrews 6:10-12
For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

Unless otherwise noted, all Bible verses are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Special thanks to OpenBible.info for the data on the most well-known Bible verses.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

The MacArthur Topical Bible: A Comprehensive Guide to Every Major Topic Found in the Bible

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

 

[Patriot]

What does the Bible say about laziness?​

ANSWER

Newton’s first law of motion states that an object in motion tends to remain in motion, and an object at rest tends to remain at rest. This law applies to people. While some are naturally driven to complete projects, others are apathetic, requiring motivation to overcome inertia. Laziness, a lifestyle for some, is a temptation for all. But the Bible is clear that, because the Lord ordained work for man, laziness is sin. “Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise” (Proverbs 6:6).

The Bible has a great deal to say about laziness. Proverbs is especially filled with wisdom concerning laziness and warnings to the lazy person. Proverbs tells us that a lazy person hates work: “The sluggard’s craving will be the death of him, because his hands refuse to work” (21:25); he loves sleep: “As a door turns on its hinges, so a sluggard turns on his bed” (26:14); he gives excuses: “The sluggard says, ‘There is a lion in the road, a fierce lion roaming the streets’” (26:13); he wastes time and energy: “He who is slothful in his work is a brother to him who is a great waster” (18:9 KJV); he believes he is wise, but is a fool: “The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who answer discreetly” (26:16).

Proverbs also tells us the end in store for the lazy: A lazy person becomes a servant (or debtor): “Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in slave labor” (12:24); his future is bleak: “A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing” (20:4); he may come to poverty: “The soul of the lazy man desires and has nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich” (13:4 KJV).

There is no room for laziness in the life of a Christian. A new believer is truthfully taught that “…it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). But a believer can become idle if he erroneously believes God expects no fruit from a transformed life. “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10). Christians are not saved by works, but they do show their faith by their works (James 2:18, 26). Slothfulness violates God’s purpose—good works. The Lord, however, empowers Christians to overcome the flesh’s propensity to laziness by giving us a new nature (2 Corinthians 5:17).

In our new nature, we are motivated to diligence and productiveness out of a love for our Savior who redeemed us. Our old propensity toward laziness—and all other sin—has been replaced by a desire to live godly lives: “He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need” (Ephesians 4:28). We are convicted of our need to provide for our families through our labors: “If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever” (1 Timothy 5:8); and for others in the family of God: “You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive'” (Acts 20:34-35).

As Christians, we know that our labors will be rewarded by our Lord if we persevere in diligence: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers” (Galatians 6:9-10); “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving” (Colossians 3:23-24); “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them” (Hebrews 6:10).

Christians should labor in God’s strength to evangelize and disciple. The apostle Paul is our example: “We proclaim him [Christ], admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me” (Colossians 1:28-29). Even in heaven, Christians’ service to God will continue, although no longer encumbered by the curse (Revelation 22:3). Free from sickness, sorrow, and sin—even laziness—the saints will glorify the Lord forever. “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Something Needs to Change: A Call to Make Your Life Count in a World of Urgent Need by David Platt

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[Patriot]

Biblically speaking, how does one achieve a proper work/life balance?​

ANSWER

As beings created in the image of God, we share in His communicable attributes, that is, we are like Him in certain ways (Genesis 1:26). As an example, God is productive—He creates, builds, maintains, repairs, and protects His handiwork. God is busy. He is not idle, and as living souls made in His image, we ought not be idle creatures.

Go to the ant, O sluggard;
consider her ways, and be wise.
Without having any chief,
officer, or ruler,
she prepares her bread in summer
and gathers her food in harvest.
How long will you lie there, O sluggard?
When will you arise 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 want like an armed man (Proverbs 6:6–11, ESV).

The Garden of Eden, prior to the fall, fits the description of paradise in every way, yet the first couple did not spend their days and nights lazing about in hammocks. God gave them dominion over creation, and with dominion came responsibility (Genesis 2:15). Adam and Eve kept busy. And so ought we.

The apostle Paul, whose tireless missionary efforts spanned the far reaches of the known world, heartily condemned idleness:

Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you. It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate. For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies. Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living (2 Thessalonians 3:6–12, ESV).

The apostle Paul further chastised those who will not support their families as being worse than infidels (1 Timothy 5:8).

At the incarnation, the Son of God left the hallowed halls of heaven to fill the role of a servant (Mark 10:45). He traveled, taught, comforted, healed, and made lasting relationships with those who would ultimately carry on His work. What did Jesus not do? Though a King, He did not live sumptuously in a palace. Though a Prince, He shunned the finery and trappings of the privileged. Though fully divine, He did not engage His miraculous powers for the sake of His own comfort and ease. On the contrary, our Lord Jesus’ demanding schedule often resulted in weariness (John 4:6). He worked hard. He had a job to do, and He was not slack in His duties. We do well following our Lord’s example, for no one who is lazy can rightfully claim to be Christlike.

With this said, we were not created as machines without an off switch. Extreme exhaustion and burnout are not godly virtues. Just as God “rested” on the seventh day of creation (Genesis 2:2), we are to regularly set aside our labors for rest, reflection, and recreation. A day of rest is for our benefit. God wants us to place our tools back in the box, tend to our families, ease our minds and bodies, and devote time to Him. We are to be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10).

While God abhors laziness, He is no cruel taskmaster. He does not stand over us with a whip; rather, He says, “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:30, ESV). God is the author of pleasure (Psalm 16:11), but how can anyone enjoy the fullness of His many blessings who insists on working from sunup to sundown?

Returning to 1 Timothy 5:8, “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever” (ESV). A perfunctory reading of this passage may lead us to believe Paul was speaking strictly of providing financial support for one’s family; however, we care for our family in ways other than paying rent and utility bills. Our spouses and our children need and deserve our time. Paying the bills is not enough—we must also pay attention to those in our household. Dads and moms overly preoccupied with matters at the office haven’t the time to attend to their families’ needs at home, and everyone suffers as a result. Children require their parents’ hands-on involvement.

How much time should be spent making a living, and how much time should be spent making a life? We must first accurately determine our priorities. Let us attend to matters based on their measure of importance. Prioritizing according to the Bible will help us achieve the proper work/life balance.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Win at Work and Succeed at Life: 5 Principles to Free Yourself from the Cult of Overwork by Hyatt & Miller

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[Patriot]

What does the Bible say about boredom?​

ANSWER

Boredom is the emotional or physical state one experiences due to lack of mental stimulation, activities to do, or interest in one’s surroundings. Life is not an action movie, thus we all will suffer times of feeling listlessness and ennui. Proverbs 19:15 speaks of how “slothfulness” can lead to unpleasant circumstances. Experiencing boredom is not a sin, but attitudes and choices that lead to or arise from boredom may be harmful to a Christian’s faith.

Christians must strive to live with passion—not apathy—and overcome boredom with positive productivity. If we are bored because we are lazy, then there’s a problem. Proverbs 6:6–11 provides a harsh admonition against laziness: “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. How long will you lie there, you 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 on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man.”

Satan loves idle hands, for lassitude leads to lack of motivation, which prevents Christians from pursuing God’s will. First Timothy 5:13 speaks of how idleness may also lead to sinful activities. With no distinct aim or goal in a fallen world, entertaining depravity becomes an enticing alternative to boredom. Yet 2 Corinthians 5:17 tells us that “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” Christians can choose not to sin and live in a God-honoring manner. Boredom and indifference need not direct our future.

Colossians 3:23–24 says, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Believers glorify God by living their lives to the fullest, exhibiting a “quiet” testimony by living as Christ would (Matthew 5:16). The apostle Paul staved off boredom with hard work in order to help the weak and supply the needs of the ministry (Acts 20:34–35). In Athens, when Paul had some “down time” while waiting for Timothy and Silas, he never got bored—he preached to whoever would listen (Acts 17:16–17).

Combating boredom can be a challenge sometimes, though with a small amount of effort a list of more productive activities is likely to emerge: clean your living space, read a book, spend time with a friend or family member, memorize some Scripture, pray. If you find yourself with nothing to do, emulate Jesus’ example by exploring ways to serve others. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Even taking a coffee or tea break with a friend can be an encouraging gift of love.

Make the most of your time on earth, for life is but a vapor (James 4:14). Redeem the time (Ephesians 5:16). Do not allow the enemy to take a foothold through boredom. “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). We can choose to use our time wisely for God and not allow boredom or sin to stifle our ability to follow God’s will (Romans 12:2).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Boring: Finding an Extraordinary God in an Ordinary Life by Michael Kelley

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[Patriot]

What is a Christian work ethic?​

ANSWER

Colossians 3:23-25 says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Another translation says to “work heartily” (ESV). Yet another says to “work willingly” (NLT). The Amplified Bible adds “from the soul.” Ephesians 6:7-8 shares a similar concept: “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free.” In essence, this is the Christian work ethic. We are commanded to put forth our best efforts, to work from our heart and soul at whatever we do. We are accountable to God and stewards of the gifts He has given us. Our work flows out of our gratefulness to Him.

God instituted work with creation, prior to the Fall. Genesis 2:15 says, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” After Adam and Eve sinned, work became toil (Genesis 3:17-19), but work itself is included in the “very good” part of creation (Genesis 1:31).

Throughout the Old Testament, God gave the Israelites specific instructions about how to do their work. He also gave instructions about providing for those who had less: “When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and the alien. I am the Lord your God” (Leviticus 23:22). This command confirms the importance of work. God does not tell the people to harvest everything and then simply give food to the poor. Instead, He tells them to leave enough of the grain to allow the poor to work for themselves. Work has a way of giving us a sense of purpose, productivity, and dignity.

The Proverbs and Ecclesiastes contain some wise sayings regarding work. Proverbs 14:23 says, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” Proverbs 6:6-11 says, “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. How long will you lie there, you 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 on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man.” Ecclesiastes 9:10 says, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” A strong work ethic is confirmed, with warnings concerning slackness.

The New Testament contains another important principle regarding work: “If a man will not work, he shall not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10); that is, the refusal of an able-bodied man to work should have the consequence that he lacks food. Paul also says that an “idle” man who refuses to work should not be part of the church (verse 6). Paul and his companions set a good example of hard work: “We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you” (verses 7-8).

Christians should work hard. Work is integral to life, and approaching work as God-given will give us more pleasure in it. We can work cheerfully and without complaint because we are working for the Lord who loves us and has redeemed us. A good work ethic can also be a witness to others (Matthew 5:16). The world takes notice of our efforts and wonders why we do what we do.

It is important to note that the Bible does not condone workaholism. We do not work merely to amass worldly wealth (in fact, Matthew 6:19-34 warns about this). We work to bring glory to God. We also do not work ourselves into the ground or to the extent that our health is damaged or our families suffer.

God is more interested in relationship with us than He is in what we do. God instituted the Sabbath at the beginning of creation. He did the work of creation for six days and then ceased. God is omnipotent; He did not need rest; He was setting an example for us. In the Ten Commandments, God confirmed both the importance of work and rest. “Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work” (Exodus 20:9-10a). Later, we see that God even required a Sabbath for the fields (see Leviticus 27). Though the specific laws regarding the Sabbath no longer apply to believers, we are told that “the Sabbath was made for man” (Mark 2:27). It is a gift that we are wise to accept. So, while Christians are called to have a strong work ethic and to work hard at all that they do, they are also called to take times of rest.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Theology of Work Project: Calling and Work

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[Patriot]

Why does the Bible tell us to not love sleep (Proverbs 20:13)?​

ANSWER

In wisdom literature, loving sleep is a metaphor for laziness, carelessness, or inactivity, while staying awake represents hard work and diligence. According to Solomon, the lazy person fast-tracks his way to poverty, but the wise one works diligently and receives his payoff in abundance and prosperity: “Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare” (Proverbs 20:13).

Sleep is a natural human process and a gift from God that daily allows the mind and body to rest, recharge, and restore to wholeness (Psalm 4:8; 127:2; Proverbs 3:21–24). However, like every good gift, sleep can be abused by people. The Bible tells us not to love sleep in excess.

The phrase to love sleep in Proverbs 20:13 means “to sleep more than the body requires, to overindulge in sleep, or ‘to sleep all the time.’” The person who “loves to sleep” is a habitual loafer who prefers lying around in bed instead of getting up, going to work, and providing for his family’s needs. Eventually, he will grow poor and hungry because he lacks the discipline and ambition to work hard, make a living, and produce food for himself and his household. “Lazy people are soon poor; hard workers get rich,” affirms the Teacher in Proverbs 10:4 (NLT). Farmers who are “too lazy to plow in the right season will have no food at the harvest” (Proverbs 20:4, NLT).

The indolent sluggard who prefers sleep over work reappears throughout the Proverbs: “How long will you lie there, you 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 on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man” (Proverbs 6:9–11, NIV). He sleeps too much and goes hungry (Proverbs 19:15). His laziness “will be the death of him, because his hands refuse to work” (Proverbs 21:25). He finds any excuse to stay in bed and escape work (Proverbs 26:13–14).

The idea Solomon seems to be driving home is that, for the most part, we are responsible for our financial outlook. If we aren’t prospering and thriving in life, it is generally because of our own bad choices. If we love the pleasure of sleeping too much, idly indulging ourselves, we’re not likely to ever enjoy much wealth. But, generally speaking, if we devote ourselves to hard work, our diligence will eventually reward us with prosperity.

God expressly charges spiritual leaders with the job of watchman or spiritual guardian. They are not to love sleep but stay alert; they must be wide awake as shepherds over God’s people (Ezekiel 3:17–21; 33:1–11). In Isaiah’s day, Israel’s prophets, priests, and leaders were all “blind; . . . they lie around and dream, they love to sleep. . . . They are shepherds who lack understanding; they all turn to their own way, they seek their own gain” (Isaiah 56:10–11). These leaders of the nation had fallen asleep on the job.

In the New Testament, sleep is used symbolically of spiritual apathy. Jesus tells His disciples to remain alert and watchful, always ready for their Master’s return. Jesus warns, “Do not let him find you sleeping” (see Mark 13:35–37; Matthew 25:1–13; 26:40–46). The apostle Paul challenges believers to remain spiritually on guard and not “be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6). Christians are to “awake out of sleep” and live every day with an understanding and awareness of their salvation in Jesus Christ (Romans 13:11–13).

There is nothing sinful about wanting a good night’s sleep. Believers can enjoy their sleep and thank God for the blessing of peaceful, restorative slumber. Yet Scripture does counsel us not to love sleep so much that it leads to idleness, laziness, or spiritual indifference.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Proverbs: Baker Commentary on the Old Testament Wisdom & Psalms by Tremper Longman III

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[Patriot]

What does the Bible say about setting goals?​

ANSWER

The Bible offers a balanced approach to setting goals that includes making plans yet doing so with wisdom and humility. Jesus’ illustration of building a tower implies that it is a good thing to have set goals (Luke 14:28).

To live with no motivation or planning is not God’s desire. Proverbs 6:6-11 says,

“Go to the ant, O sluggard;
consider her ways, and be wise.
Without having any chief,
officer, or ruler,
she prepares her bread in summer
and gathers her food in harvest.
How long will you lie there, O sluggard?
When will you arise 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 want like an armed man.”

Laziness causes a person to neglect work and fail to exploit the window of opportunity. Summer is the preparation time for winter, and we dare not wile it away. Failure to plan ahead will result in “poverty” and “want.”

Wisely setting goals leads to better results: “The plans of the diligent lead to profit” (Proverbs 21:5).

However, just because we’ve done our planning doesn’t guarantee our goals will be met. The process of setting goals must be infused with humility. James teaches,

“Now listen, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.' Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (James 4:13-14).

The Bible teaches against two extremes: never setting goals and setting goals with no thought of God. The balanced alternative is found in James 4:15: “Instead you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’” It is good to make plans, as long as we leave room for God to change our plans. His goals take precedence over ours.

Proverbs 16:9 says, “In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.” In other words, we have our ideas and make our plans, but God will ultimately accomplish His sovereign desires. Do our goals make room for the unexpected? Do we love God’s will more than our own?

Finally, we can take comfort in the words of Jesus: “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself” (Matthew 6:33-34). Our goal-setting need not be accompanied by fear. If our plans focus on Christ and honor Him, He will see to it that the best results—the eternal results—are ours.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

The Power-Based Life: Realize Your Life’s Goals and Dreams by Strengthening Your Body, Mind, and Spirit by Mike Flynt

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[Patriot]

What are some Bible verses about business?​

ANSWER

Deuteronomy 8:18
You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

Proverbs 11:1
A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight.

Colossians 3:23
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,

Leviticus 19:13
You shall not oppress your neighbor or rob him. The wages of a hired servant shall not remain with you all night until the morning.

Colossians 3:17
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Proverbs 10:4
A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.

Proverbs 16:3
Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.

Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.

Proverbs 13:11
Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.

Proverbs 13:4
The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.

Proverbs 22:29
Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.

Ecclesiastes 9:10
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.

Proverbs 16:8
Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues with injustice.

Psalm 112:5
It is well with the man who deals generously and lends; who conducts his affairs with justice.

Luke 16:10
One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.

Mark 8:36
For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?

Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Jeremiah 22:13
Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness, and his upper rooms by injustice, who makes his neighbor serve him for nothing and does not give him his wages,

James 5:4
Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.

Proverbs 22:16
Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth, or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.

Unless otherwise noted, all Bible verses are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Special thanks to OpenBible.info for the data on the most well-known Bible verses.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

The MacArthur Topical Bible: A Comprehensive Guide to Every Major Topic Found in the Bible

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[Patriot]

What are some Bible verses about budgeting?​

ANSWER

Proverbs 3:9
Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce;

Luke 14:28-30
For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’

Proverbs 22:7
The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.

Proverbs 15:22
Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.

Proverbs 27:23
Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds,

Matthew 6:33
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Proverbs 6:6-8
Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.

Proverbs 21:20
Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.

2 Corinthians 9:6
The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.

1 Corinthians 4:2
Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.

1 Timothy 6:17-19
As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.

Matthew 6:19-21
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.

Haggai 2:8
The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, declares the Lord of hosts.

Proverbs 23:4-5
Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist. When your eyes light on it, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven.

1 Timothy 6:10
For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.

Proverbs 27:23-27
Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever; and does a crown endure to all generations? When the grass is gone and the new growth appears and the vegetation of the mountains is gathered, the lambs will provide your clothing, and the goats the price of a field. There will be enough goats' milk for your food, for the food of your household and maintenance for your girls.

1 John 2:15-17
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

1 Corinthians 16:2
On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.

Proverbs 27:12
The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.

Unless otherwise noted, all Bible verses are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Special thanks to OpenBible.info for the data on the most well-known Bible verses.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

The MacArthur Topical Bible: A Comprehensive Guide to Every Major Topic Found in the Bible

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[Patriot]

What are some Bible verses about apathy?​

ANSWER

Romans 12:11
Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.

Zephaniah 1:12-13
At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps, and I will punish the men who are complacent, those who say in their hearts, ‘The Lord will not do good, nor will he do ill.’ Their goods shall be plundered, and their houses laid waste. Though they build houses, they shall not inhabit them; though they plant vineyards, they shall not drink wine from them.

Revelation 3:2
Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God.

2 Timothy 4:3-4
For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.

Ephesians 6:10-12
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

Revelation 3:15-16
I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.

Ephesians 5:16
Making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.

Romans 12:9-13
Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

Proverbs 15:19
The way of a sluggard is like a hedge of thorns, but the path of the upright is a level highway.

John 5:39-40
You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life.

James 4:17
So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.

Mark 14:38-41
Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him. And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.”

1 John 3:17-18
But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.

Galatians 6:9
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.

Hebrews 5:11-12
About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food,

Ecclesiastes 9:10
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.

Hebrews 11:6
And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Proverbs 18:9
Whoever is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys.

Proverbs 21:13
Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.

Proverbs 18:1
Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment.

Unless otherwise noted, all Bible verses are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Special thanks to OpenBible.info for the data on the most well-known Bible verses.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

The MacArthur Topical Bible: A Comprehensive Guide to Every Major Topic Found in the Bible

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

 

[Patriot]

What are some Bible verses about business?​

ANSWER

Deuteronomy 8:18
You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

Proverbs 11:1
A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight.

Colossians 3:23
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,

Leviticus 19:13
You shall not oppress your neighbor or rob him. The wages of a hired servant shall not remain with you all night until the morning.

Colossians 3:17
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Proverbs 10:4
A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.

Proverbs 16:3
Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.

Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.

Proverbs 13:11
Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.

Proverbs 13:4
The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.

Proverbs 22:29
Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.

Ecclesiastes 9:10
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.

Proverbs 16:8
Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues with injustice.

Psalm 112:5
It is well with the man who deals generously and lends; who conducts his affairs with justice.

Luke 16:10
One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.

Mark 8:36
For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?

Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Jeremiah 22:13
Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness, and his upper rooms by injustice, who makes his neighbor serve him for nothing and does not give him his wages,

James 5:4
Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.

Proverbs 22:16
Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth, or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.

Unless otherwise noted, all Bible verses are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Special thanks to OpenBible.info for the data on the most well-known Bible verses.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

The MacArthur Topical Bible: A Comprehensive Guide to Every Major Topic Found in the Bible

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

 

[Patriot]

What does the Bible say about saving for retirement?​

ANSWER

The Bible does not specifically mention saving for retirement, per se, and it doesn’t mention 401(k) plans, IRAs, or the like. However, the Bible does speak of saving money, and it gives us clear principles to guide us in whether Christians should save for retirement.

The issues of retirement and investment in stocks have been addressed in separate articles. This article will focus primarily on the issue of whether Christians should save money for perceived future needs, such as when no longer generating income.

The Bible speaks positively about providing for oneself financially through work. In 2 Thessalonians 3, Paul gives a warning against idleness. He reminds the Thessalonians of how he and his companions worked to provide for themselves while serving the church, despite the fact that they had a right to receive monetary support from the church. In verse 10 Paul says the rule is that “the one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” It seems, then, that we are responsible to provide financially for ourselves when possible. The question becomes whether we should save money during our working years in order to provide for ourselves during our retirement years, when we are unable to generate income.

The book of Proverbs has many admonitions that promote saving money and other resources. Proverbs 21:20 says, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” Proverbs 6:6–8 uses an insect as an illustration of the need to save: “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”

Recognizing a future need and making provisions for it today is a biblically wise thing to do. Financial stewardship now, including saving for retirement, can enable us to better serve others later. We see Joseph exemplify the wisdom of saving in Genesis 41 when he stored provisions for the prophesied famine to come. We could even say that God’s command to the Israelites to gather enough manna on the sixth day to provide for both Friday and Saturday is a form of saving for a future need (see Exodus 16). Of course, “some of the people went out on the seventh day to gather it, but they found none” (verse 27). In their failure to plan ahead and save, they went hungry.

On the other side, we have passages like Matthew 6:25–34 in which Jesus encourages us not to be worried for tomorrow or to seek after the things of the world. Later, Jesus tells the parable of the rich fool, who had such an abundance of crops that he planned to build a larger barn to store up provisions for himself so that he could “say to [himself], ‘You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry’” (Luke 12:19). “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’” (verse 20). Jesus concludes with this application: “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God” (verse 21). The issue in both passages seems to be one of heart. Jesus is not speaking against saving now for needs in the future. What He is talking about is where our hearts should be focused. We are to value the things that God values, trust in His provision instead of our own wealth, and also live wisely.

Christians are wise to examine their current spending patterns and their perceived future financial needs. When considering how to save for retirement, it is good to pray over the matter, search the Scriptures on the appropriate use of money, and meet with a financial adviser. Saving is wise, and trusting God is wise. As we save for retirement, we recognize that the goal is not a selfish enjoyment of a lavish life after years of work. The goal is not even self-sufficiency, since our dependence is always on God. The goal is to exercise godly wisdom in providing for our needs in future years and having enough to continue giving to others. Our trust is not in government programs or 401(k)s or individual retirement accounts. Our hearts are set on things above, where our true treasure is. Ultimately, our money belongs to God and is directed for His purposes.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Creating a Successful Retirement: Finding Peace and Purpose by Richard Johnson

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