One in a Million

(Proverbs 20:4 KJV)  The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.

This is a good place to compare translations in order to get a richer understanding.  First you have the “reason” (4480) of the KJV and the “after” of the NASB.  This is a common preposition which the NASB usually translates “because”.  This would fit with the KJV.  Then you have the “cold” (2779) of the KJV verses the “autumn” of the NASB.  Here the nod goes to the NASB.

When you put it together you understand that you have a person who is looking for an excuse to be lazy.  We are good at this.  I was thinking of getting out my golf clubs the other day but decided it was too hot.  The coming weekend has the possibility of showers.  When I first started playing my enthusiasm would have had me out swinging both times.  Now, all it takes is a bit of an excuse. 

I don’t like paraphrases for finding truth but they hit the nail on the head at times.

(Proverbs 20:4 CEV)  If you are too lazy to plow, don't expect a harvest.

So?  Be leery of excuses.  I have a million of them.  I don’t think I am the only one.