What does the Bible say about a lazy person?

In addition, the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 teaches that God has entrusted each person with gifts and abilities, and expects them to use those gifts to further his kingdom. The parable warns against laziness and the failure to use one's talents to their full potential.

The Bible has much to say about the virtues of hard work and the dangers of laziness. In Proverbs 6:6-11, for example, the writer urges the reader to consider the ways of the ant, which works diligently to gather food and prepare for the future. The passage warns against the folly of laziness, which leads to poverty and want.

Similarly, Proverbs 10:4 states that "Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth." This verse emphasizes the importance of hard work and industry in achieving success and financial stability.

In Proverbs 13:4, the writer declares that "A sluggard's appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied." This passage highlights the fact that laziness leads to dissatisfaction and unfulfilled desires, while hard work and diligence bring satisfaction and contentment.

The New Testament also addresses the issue of laziness. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10, the apostle Paul admonishes believers to work for their living, stating that "The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat." This verse emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and self-sufficiency, and warns against the dangers of laziness and dependence on others.

In addition, the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 teaches that God has entrusted each person with gifts and abilities, and expects them to use those gifts to further his kingdom. The parable warns against laziness and the failure to use one's talents to their full potential, stating that the one who buried his talent in the ground was cast out into darkness.

The Bible also teaches that laziness is a sin. In 1 Timothy 5:8, Paul writes that "Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." This verse emphasizes the importance of hard work and responsibility in caring for one's family.

Laziness leads to poverty, dissatisfaction, and unfulfilled desires, while hard work and industry bring success, satisfaction, and contentment. As Christians, we are called to use our gifts and abilities to further God's kingdom, and to be responsible and self-sufficient in caring for ourselves and our families.

Subscribe to Bible Analysis

Sign up now to get access to the library of members-only issues.
Jamie Larson
Subscribe