READING: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-18
The Scriptures condemn laziness outright. Jesus Christ presents laziness and wickedness as two sides of a coin. The wicked and lazy person, according to Jesus, is a false accuser and unprofitable in all he or she does (see Matthew 25:26-30). In short, laziness is a sin. It is in this connection that today’s passage for meditation urges Christians not to make friends with those who are lazy in the household of God (v6). However, the lazy are not to be treated as enemies, but admonished as brothers and sisters (v15). Why should the lazy be admonished? When God created Adam, He put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it (Gen. 2:15). Adam was not created to be idle or lazy, the same applies to us. God has so blessed His children such that there will always be something beneficial to be occupied with. God has deposited in each and every one of us potentials, and He expects us to occupy until He comes (Luke 19:13). Here are some reasons why the lazy need to be admonished: (1) Their friends are those who walk disorderly (v6). (2) They do not live an exemplary life (vv7&9). (3) They are a burden to others (v8). (4) They ever live in hunger (vvl0&12). (5) They are the devil’s workshop-busybodies (v11). (6) They ever tired of doing good (v13). (7) They live a shameful life (v15). (8) They are always under warning (v15).
When we consider these shortcomings in the lives of the lazy, we will realize that they may find it difficult to enjoy the peace the Lord of peace Himself gives at all times in every way (vI6). Beloved in Christ, laziness is a sin which we must resist so that we can enjoy the peace of God.
PRAYER: Father, grant me grace to work while it is day in Jesus name. Amen.