“A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame.” – Proverbs 10:4-5
I read a devotion this morning on this verse and it was rather convicting. It spoke of man’s work. Work was not a result of the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. However, because of sin, work comes with thorns and thistles, making it more difficult. Our sin nature wants to avoid anything that involves hard work. So, man naturally wants to be lazy.
One thing that is evident in our society is that many do not want to make a bad name for themselves. Proverbs 10:5, however, tells us that the one who is lazy (sleeps in harvest) is a son who brings shame. The person’s inability to do what they are supposed to do brings shame upon themselves and those that are close to them. That means a bad reputation is made regarding the company you may work for and the family you have, just because of slothfulness.
What made the devotion I read more convicting is that it involved spiritual matters and the Church. We live in the Bible belt. Many of us may claim a church or denomination to help our reputation. Many even proclaim the name of Christ for reputation but not as their Savior and Lord. We also fail to study the Word of God and pray the way we should. Becoming a Christian takes only repentance & faith, but being a Christian takes work. It takes dedication. It takes sacrificing all that you have and all that you are, so God can make you into the person you are supposed to be. When we fail to put forth the effort in our spiritual life, we bring shame upon ourselves, our families, the Church, and most importantly Christ. May I encourage you to work hard. Work not for your own reputation, but because you represent Christ. Work hard spiritually. Study the Bible, pray consistently, and get involved in church.