He was a great high school athlete. A fullback in a wishbone offense, he could run over, around, and away from those who tried to bring him down. With his natural strength and abilities, he was set to make a name for himself—except for one thing—he was lazy. Glimpses of greatness appeared when he felt like it, but most of the time, his effort was lackluster.

Laziness produces scarcity—in all areas of life. Here’s how today’s proverb says it.

Proverbs 24:33-34
A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.

Laziness keeps us from being all God intended for us to be, whether at home, work, or worship. Laziness is a lack of discipline that will keep us out of shape physically and spiritually. Poverty, in all forms, will come upon us “like a robber” and steal the blessings that God has for us.

The apostle Paul says, “Train yourself for godliness” (1 Timothy 4:7). The word “train” is a translation of the Greek word “gumnazo,” from which we get the English word “gymnasium.” It was the place where athletes of Paul’s day worked to strengthen their bodies for competition. Discipline is key—for the body and the soul.

Father, show me where I am lazy—in reading your Word, spending time in prayer, investing my time to serve others, sharing the message of Jesus, caring for others, giving, etc. Give me the desire and strength to address the lazy areas of my life and instill godly discipline.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen.