The Slacker

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“Whoever is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys.”

Proverbs 18:9

 

Slack in a rope has no pulling power. You must first straighten it out before you can accomplish anything. Being slack in your work means that time and opportunity are wasted. Not only is this comparable to stealing from an employer, it also steals from your satisfaction and sense of accomplishment.

The Lord made us to work. The Sabbath command includes in it the command to work for six days. In our work it is not only foolish to waste time and energy, it is also dangerous. Notice that Solomon didn’t say that the slacker is second cousin once removed from the destroyer. He said he is a brother.

What does being slack in our work destroy? It destroys our joy and sense of self. Yes, work brings joy because it honors God. Ecclesiastes 12:13 says, “The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” To respect God and honor his commands, one of which is to work in such a way that honors God, is to recognize God’s reality as our Creator. When we are slack in our work, we act as a destroyer to God’s work as Creator.

Almighty God, you have made all things including work for us to do. Help us to be diligent and not lazy and in so doing bring honor and glory to you. Amen.

Devoted to keeping Jesus Christ the main thing.

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