In these two
verses, Solomon set out to contrast two sets of work attitudes. In verse 4, he
contrasts for us what happens to those who are slothful and indifferent, as
opposed to those who are industrious and conscientious. The results are evident. The slothful and indifferent people end up being poor and ineffective.
When we consider the fact that work is the first mandate God has given to man,
we must take it diligently. Remember after God had created Adam and put him in the
Garden of Eden, His first instruction to him was to dress, keep, till the
garden and be fruitful and multiple. To be lazy and slothful would be contrary
to that instruction. There is dignity in work, so the Bible says. Why? Because God
knows that those who are indolent will be severely disadvantaged, they will
remain poor. Whereas the diligent will be wealthy. The emphasis is on working
hard. And one who is hardworking is never afraid of work.
Just as verse
4 shows the result of the slothful versus the diligent, verse 5 contrasts for
us another set of attitudes – those who are prudent versus those who procrastinate.
One who is prudent has foresight, he looks at the season of life and seizes the
opportunity, takes advantage of the time and accumulate. Think of it this way,
when fruits are not gathered during summer, when the weather permits, they will
go to ruin by the heavy rain of autumn. A person who does not work when the
season calls for has acted disgracefully and dishonorably.
From these two verses, we learn that our wealth
in a sense is determined by our work. This is God’s law of providence.
Remember, whatsoever a man sows, that he shall also reap. Like it or not, our
wealth is determined by our attitude towards work. Know that diligence at work
will invariably work out positively for us. Work always develops strength and
vigor whereas idleness makes one sloppy and aimless. Furthermore, Paul tells us
that we are God’s stewards on earth and stewardship demands responsibility. Keep
in mind that there is a time for everything. To sleep during harvest time is
living inconsistent with what the purpose this season is made for. It reflects foolishness
because sleep during harvest time causes one to lose precious opportunities. In
these two verses we are challenged to be diligent workers and to seize every
opportunity. We are God’s stewards called to labor for Him. Let’s be mindful of
the Lord Jesus’ challenge on this Easter morning of 1 April 2018. He said: “Work
while it is day, for when night comes, no man can work.” So, let’s get to it
and seize the day!
No comments:
Post a Comment