Reading the Word
Proverbs 24:30–34 (ESV)
30 I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense,
31 and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down.
32 Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction.
33 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest,
34 and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.
Understanding and Applying the Word
Yesterday’s reading emphasized the importance of doing things in the proper order. First, we need to work and secure an income. After that, we can build our house. When we get the order wrong, we end up with great debt that we cannot repay. Today’s reading has the same emphasis, but uses a different picture. We must see that our work is done before we lay down to rest. Otherwise, before we know it, the time for work has run out and we find ourselves in poverty.
The Book of Proverbs teaches us how to live wisely in the world. Much of what is mentioned may seem like common sense, but if you have been around for long, you realize there really is no such thing. The last two days, we have learned that we must put in the work and preparation before we spend our money and before we lay down to rest. In today’s language, we cannot expect to start out with the best house, cars, and luxury items. We must save up for those things. We also cannot expect to live the retired life before we have worked and prepared for those years. First things first. If you get the order wrong, it can be disastrous.
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