The Bible teaches that idleness and refusal to work are not in line with God's design for humanity. In 2 Thessalonians, the apostle Paul instructs that those who do not work should not eat, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility and contribution. Similarly, 1 Timothy urges believers to provide for their own households, while Ephesians encourages working to have something to share with those in need. The scriptures in 2 Thessalonians also warn against being idle and busybody, instead exhorting believers to work quietly and earn their own living, as seen in 2 Thessalonians 3:11-16.
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For even while we were with you, we gave you this command: “If anyone is unwilling to work, he shall not eat.”
If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need.
We command and urge such people by our Lord Jesus Christ to begin working quietly to earn their own living. But as for you, brothers, do not grow weary in well-doing. Take note of anyone who does not obey the instructions we have given in this letter. Do not associate with him, so that he may be ashamed. Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother. Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
Yet we hear that some of you are leading undisciplined lives and accomplishing nothing but being busybodies.
Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.
Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men,
A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and need like a bandit.
The slacker craves yet has nothing, but the soul of the diligent is fully satisfied.
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.
The one who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies lacks judgment.
Then the LORD God took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate and keep it.