The Consequences of Inaction

[Christ4Ever]

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

What you don’t do may have worse consequences than what you choose to do. Although rest and leisure are important, sloth and inaction will inevitably lead to poverty and struggle. That isn’t to say that everyone living in poverty is lazy—calamities beyond our control will happen. Rather, there are real consequences for failing to take initiative in life.

God is merciful and kind, but He will also let you reap what you sow in life. That is true for your spiritual practices and for your work. As you trust God to provide what you need, you remain responsible for taking the initiative and acting on the opportunities you have today. Much like an ant that is motivated to work hard, you shouldn’t require accountability or punishments to do what is required to care for yourself.

Prayer: Help me, Lord, to work with gratitude for my opportunities.

 

[Brad Huber]

Doing is what it speaks of here, doing something constructive versus being lazy. But it also applies to our words, must not fear speaking the truth in love and for the sake of love.

 

[B-A-C]

2Thes 3:10; For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either.

 

[Brad Huber]

2Thes 3:10; For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either.

And this is Paul, speaking the truth in love. It would seem harsh to most people nowdays, but if you care about someone, you speak even the hard truths. To keep badgering someone about it wouldnt be in love, but not saying anything at all would not be loving the person, it would be saying, "I care so little for you that I really dont care if you are lazy and worthless on this earth or in the kingdom of God."