“The way of a sluggard is like a hedge of thorns,
but the path of the upright is a level highway.”
– Proverbs 15:19
The Bible has quite a bit to say about working hard. God’s people are expected to be hard workers because He created and ordained work for us to do. Our souls certainly aren’t saved by hard work, but hard work is an expected part of life. Having to work hard isn’t a curse, it’s a blessing!
Unfortunately, human beings have vivid imaginations and a wonderful ability to make excuses. For those struggling with laziness (“the sluggard”), there’s always an excuse for not getting started or for not taking the next step. There’s always a reason (or several) not to work. There are always obstacles and more obstacles. This is the hedge of thorns described in this verse. It isn’t real! It’s simply the thick wall of excuses and rationalizations given to justify doing nothing.
Laziness doesn’t honor God. Making excuses doesn’t bring Him glory. For those who love God, we simply need to get out there and keep moving forward. That doesn’t mean there won’t be challenges, obstacles, and setbacks. But it means that your path will be clear of the most crippling of those – the ones we imagine which keep us from ever trying.
When you contemplate all that you must do – in a day, week, year, or lifetime – what do you think about? Do you think about all the challenges, hardships, obstacles, and reasons you’ll fail? Or do you step out in the confidence that God is with you and that He’ll guide you over, through, past, or around every obstacle? That mindset is crucial for believers! Whatever your next steps are in days to come, don’t make excuses. Make progress!