An Idea Borrowed

Years ago on a radio program someone shared that they read a chapter in Proverbs every day. Since there are 31 chapters and the longest month has 31 days it allows you to read through Proverbs on a regular basis. I use it as the launch pad for my personal worship time and branch out from there. On this blog I will try to share some of the insights I have in the Word. I will try to organize them in the archive by reference.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Spiritual Work Ethic

(Pro 13:4 KJV) The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.

At first glance this might appear to be about our work lives. Does this really speak to our study and worship habits? The focus is on the “soul” (5315). Even in spiritual matters it is so easy to be a “sluggard” (6102).

The sluggard “desireth" (craves NASB) (183) but does nothing about it. This reminds me of the self-esteem posters I see on a regular basis at school. “If you can imagine it, you can do it.” I have not seen anything about hard work in these cute sayings. Another difference between the world and the Word.

I think a better way to write this would be:
A sluggards craves. The results? Nothing.
But the “diligent” (2742a) receives. In this case it seems to imply the one who gets out and works. The way to achieve our goals and dreams is not to plan and dream but to do. This applies to our spiritual lives. We are to be diligent in our prayer and worship. That means applying ourselves. It means finding a place to serve instead of a place to be served. It means paying attention and thinking.

After all, doesn’t everyone want a “fat” (1878) soul?

No comments: