How lazy can you get?

The story is told of a man who told his doctor that he wasn't able to do all the things around the house that he used to do. When the examination was complete, he said, "Now, Doc, I can take it. Tell me in plain English what is wrong with me."



"Well, in plain English," the doctor replied, "you're just lazy."



"Okay," said the man. "Now give me the medical term so I can tell my wife."



Speaking of laziness, I am reminded of some of the humorous images painted by Solomon in the book of Proverbs:



"The lazy man says, 'There is a lion in the road! A fierce lion is in the streets!' As a door turns on its hinges, so does the lazy man on his bed. The lazy man buries his hand in the bowl; It wearies him to bring it back to his mouth." (Proverbs 26:13-15)



Imagine a man so lazy that he can't even lift his fork to his mouth to eat. Now that's lazy! But, while Solomon uses humor, he is trying to make a serious point. Laziness is a terrible sin.



Oh, I know, I know, if you were to make a list of the ten worst sins, you probably wouldn't include laziness. But think about it for a moment. Think about something good that you intended to do recently -- make a visit, send a card, invite someone over for dinner. Now think about why you didn't get it done. Is there a chance you said, "I just didn't get around to it"? That may be the "medical term", but you know what it is in "plain English."



Take a little extra effort (yes, it will take effort!) to do something good today that you know needs to be done. No excuses, no laziness, just do it.





Verses



1 John 5:4



because everyone who has been Begotten from God is victorious over the world; and the power that ensures victory over the world is this -- even our faith.



1 Peter 2:24



He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.



Hebrews 13:6



So we can say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?"



Isaiah 56:7



even them I will bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on My altar; for My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations."



Psalm 23:1



Because the LORD is my Shepherd, I have everything I need!



Prayer



Father, we are thankful for Your great compassion and enduring patience; that You do not treat us as our sins deserve but with Your never-ending mercy. From everlasting to everlasting Your love is with those who walk with You, who keep Your covenant and obey Your precepts. Amen.