This verse is in the middle of a passage looking at different sides of the lure of being “rich” (wealth NASB) (6238). Often the verses of Proverbs stand alone. At times several will follow a theme. This is a theme time.
At first it might seem that this verse is saying, “Don’t work hard.” Keep in mind the principle of interpretation that demands taking all scripture into consideration. Just in Proverbs we are told to work hard, to not be sluggards. In other words, don’t be lazy. We are made “weary” (NASB) (3021) by a lack of balance more than by a excess of hard work. When we work hard, we sleep well and feel good about life. When we obsess with one thing we sleep fitfully and are always tired.
The issue here is the focus of our work. Why do we work? Why do we work hard? In addition to the obvious of supporting ourselves and our families we have the words of Paul:
EPH 4:28 Let him who steals steal no longer; but rather let him labor, performing with his own hands what is good, in order that he may have {something} to share with him who has need. (NASB)I have listened to people trained in business. I have watched how stores are run. One observation I have had is that the businesses that focus on just making a profit do well in the short term but fail over time. Profit is necessary but it is the target of serving the customers that is the key to success. The person who wears himself out just get rich wears himself out. The person who is concerned with serving finishes the race.
So? Do good work and do it with the right attitude. Develop a servant attitude at home, work and even at play. Again, this is all through the Bible. It needs to be all through our lives.
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