The Problem of Laziness The Problem of Laziness

The Problem of Laziness

The Problem of Laziness • Laziness – one unwilling to work or use energy, despite the ability to do so. Can apply either fully or partially. • Sluggard, slothful, slumber, lukewarm, idleness, lethargy, complacency, etc.

The Problem of Laziness • A problem in our society – many activities encourage idleness. Our society often rewards or tolerates laziness in our communities and in the workplace. Subpar work ethics, etc. Often, those trying to be honest are discouraged or frustrated.

The Problem of Laziness • A problem in the church as well. Is mediocrity and indifference tolerated? Why are we not growing personally? Do we quit before we’re finished with a task? Do we make excuses, etc. ? • While not always because of laziness, it CAN be the cause or a contributing factor.

The Bible and Laziness • God has always intended that men work. • Even in the garden, Adam was given work to do (Genesis 2: 15, 19) • Proverbs 14: 23, In all labor there is profit, But idle chatter leads only to poverty. • Ecclesiastes 2: 24, Nothing is better for a man that he should eat and drink, and that his soul should enjoy good in his labor. This also, I saw, was from the hand of God.

The Bible and Laziness • Proverbs and laziness • He will be ruled by others Proverbs 12: 24, The hand of the diligent will rule, But the lazy man will be put to forced labor. 20: 4, The lazy man will not plow because of winter; He will beg during harvest and have nothing.

The Bible and Laziness • Proverbs and laziness • Proverbs 19: 15, Laziness casts one into a deep sleep, And an idle person will suffer hunger. • 19: 24, A lazy man buries his hand in the bowl, And will not so much as bring it to his mouth again. • 10: 5, He who gathers in summer is a wise son; He who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame.

The Bible and Laziness • Proverbs and laziness • He is wasteful Proverbs 12: 27, The lazy man does not roast what he took in hunting, But diligence is man’s precious possession. • Proverbs 21: 25, The desire of the lazy man kills him, For his hands refuse to labor. 13: 4, The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing…

The Bible and Laziness • Proverbs and laziness • How he is viewed by others Proverbs 21: 25 -26, The desire of the lazy man kills him, For his hands refuse to labor. He covets greedily all day long, But the righteous gives and does not spare.

The Bible and Laziness • Proverbs and laziness • The fruit of his (lack of) efforts Proverbs 24: 30 -34, I went by the field of the lazy man, And by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; And there it was, all overgrown with thorns; Its surface was covered with nettles; Its stone wall was broken down. When I saw it, I considered it well; I looked on it and received instruction: A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest; So shall your poverty come like a prowler, And your need like an armed man.

The Bible and Laziness • The New Testament • Matthew 25: 26, the wicked and lazy one talent servant • Colossians 3: 23, whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not to men. • 1 Thessalonians 4: 10 -11, lead a quiet life, mind your own business and work

The Bible and Laziness • The New Testament • 2 Thessalonians 3: 10 -12, If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat… • 1 Timothy 5: 8, he who fails to provide for his own house… • 1 Timothy 5: 13, younger widows to marry lest they learn to be idle and become gossips and busybodies.

The Bible and Laziness • The New Testament • Hebrews 6: 12, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

Dealing with Laziness • Overcoming laziness requires work. • Realize it is NOT a disability, but an attitude! A mindset! Make up your mind! • There is reward in work! Ecclesiastes 5: 12, The sleep of a laboring man is sweet, Whether he eats little or much; But the abundance of the rich will not permit him to sleep. • Think of the damage of an unproductive life!

Dealing with Laziness • Proverbs 6: 6 -11, go to the ant you sluggard… • Learn from those who are industrious. Make THEM your mentors • Jesus was an example of industry! John 9: 4, Acts 10: 38, John 17: 4

Dealing with Laziness • Proverbs 22: 13, The lazy man says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be slain in the streets!” • Quit making excuses! (Notice how ridiculous excuses can become) • The one talent servant was making excuses – Matthew 25: 24 -25

Dealing with Laziness • 2 Timothy 2: 15, 2 Peter 1: 5, be diligent! • Every thing about the Christian’s life points toward excellence. We give our best in all that we do. • Realize that what you are doing is to the Lord! Colossians 3: 23

Dealing with Laziness • Get organized! • A practical suggestion! Sometimes our actions are the product of being overwhelmed! Too much going on! Our “little things” have grown into mountains • Self-discipline and self-control • Simplify your life! Ephesians 5: 15 -16. 6: 7. Get rid of the clutter!

Dealing with Laziness • Make yourself do what you need to do! You have to get to work • Resolve you are going to be what you need to be. Be realistic as you move forward and set goals to improve (not too easy or too hard)

While laziness may be a problem, it doesn’t have to stay that way.

Is God pleased with your efforts?