A person characterized by laziness and lack of diligence is warned against in Scripture, particularly in the book of Proverbs. The wise sayings of Proverbs, such as those found in chapters 6 and 20, urge individuals to learn from the industrious ant and to be diligent in their work, lest they suffer the consequences of poverty and shame. Proverbs 13:4 and 24:30-34 also emphasize the importance of hard work and responsible stewardship, contrasting the sluggard's idle ways with the blessings that come from diligence and responsibility. By highlighting the sluggard's pitfalls, Proverbs encourages believers to cultivate a strong work ethic and to trust in God's provision.
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The slacker craves yet has nothing, but the soul of the diligent is fully satisfied.
Walk in the manner of the ant, O slacker; observe its ways and become wise. Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food at harvest.
The slacker does not plow in season; at harvest time he looks, but nothing is there.
I went past the field of a slacker and by the vineyard of a man lacking judgment. Thorns had grown up everywhere, thistles had covered the ground, and the stone wall was broken down. I observed and took it to heart; I looked and received instruction: 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.
If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
Walk in the manner of the ant, O slacker; observe its ways and become wise. Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food at harvest. How long will you lie there, O slacker? When will you get up from your sleep? 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.
Then the LORD God took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate and keep it.
Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men,