(Proverbs 21:5 KJV) The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.
We come to another clue to the causes of poverty. Other places indicate laziness is a path to “want" (poverty NASB) (4270), here it is haste and in 21:17 love of pleasure. The reasons for destroying wealth are rooted in the short-cut mentality of the lazy. They think they will get it done quick and easy. If it is quick and easy, then it is costly. Fast food is quick and will keep you alive but my wife has never wanted to go to the golden arches for our anniversary dinner.
Three elements determine any project: Time, quality, price. Anything worth doing is going to demand a sacrifice in one of those areas. For example, you can do something fast and cheap, but not well. Or you can do it fast and well, but not cheap. Of course you can miss on all three and have a royal failure.
Laziness and haste are two extremes. Both can lead to poverty In the middle is the diligent planner.
So take some time to think, pray and plan. Get to church early and use the extra time to meditate. When I am asked what I am doing, I try to dig up big words like “reflecting” or “contemplating.” The Holy Spirit has a hard time talking to you when you are doing the 50 yard dash but can fill your mind on a two mile walk.
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2 comments:
We certainly need the Lord's help. Otherwise, we're still with "the best laid plans of mice and men." I was amused to see your reference to price, quality and time. A young man at work drew out the triangle for me to give me a lesson on economics just a day or two ago! Good post.
God doesn't seem to agree with modern educational theory. He uses repetition to teach. I was just being used to reinforce the other teacher. Proverbs is really good that way. There are so many themes that keep getting repeated. I find it helps me keep my mind where my heart is and my heart from wandering.
Grace and Peace
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