DILIGENT & LAZY (2)

(Message by Tanny Keng)

0. Introduction

a) Proverbs makes it clear that diligence - being willing to work hard and do one's best at any job given to him or her - is a vital part of wise living. We work hard not to become rich, famous, or admired (although those may by by-products), but to serve God with our very best during our lives.




1. The diligent: "Are fully satisfied"

a) The lazy

i) Want much but get little (Proverbs 13:4)

b) Text reference: Proverbs 13:4

i) ⁴ The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing; But the soul of the diligent shall be made rich. (Proverbs 13:4 NKJV)

2. The diligent: "Bring profit"

a) The lazy

i) Experience poverty (Proverbs 14:23)

b) Text reference: Proverbs 14:23

i) ²³ In all labor there is profit, But idle chatter leads only to poverty. (Proverbs 14:23 NKJV)

3. The diligent: "Have an easy path"

a) The lazy

i) Have trouble all through life (Proverbs 15:19)

ii) Are like those who destroy (Proverbs 18:9)

iii) Go hungry (Proverbs 19:15)

iv) Won't feed themselves (Proverbs 19:24)

v) Won't plow in season (Proverbs 20:4)

b) Text reference: Proverbs 15:19; 18:9; 19:15; 19:24; 20:4

i) ¹⁹ The way of the lazy man is like a hedge of thorns, But the way of the upright is a highway. (Proverbs 15:19 NKJV)

ii) ⁹ He who is slothful in his work, Is a brother to him who is a great destroyer. (Proverbs 18:9 NKJV)

iii) ¹⁵ Laziness casts one into a deep sleep, And an idle person will suffer hunger. (Proverbs 19:15 NKJV)

iv) ²⁴ A lazy man buries his hand in the bowl,  And will not so much as bring it to his mouth again. (Proverbs 19:24 NKJV)

v) ⁴ The lazy man will not plow because of winter; He will beg during harvest and have nothing. (Proverbs 20:4 NKJV)

The End ...