Proverbs 21:25 - The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor.

Generated Verse: Proverbs 21:25

What does "Proverbs 21:25" mean?


Proverbs 21:25, "The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor," is a powerful proverb about the destructive nature of laziness. Let's break it down:

"The desire of the sluggard kills him..." This doesn't mean the lazy person literally dies from wanting things. Instead, it refers to a more metaphorical death. The sluggard's unfulfilled desires ultimately destroy their potential, opportunity, and even their spirit. They crave things – success, comfort, wealth – but their laziness prevents them from achieving them. This creates a cycle of frustration, disappointment, and ultimately, a wasted life. They are killed by their own inaction and the resulting stagnation.

"...for his hands refuse to labor." This is the core reason for the sluggard's demise. Their laziness isn't just a personality quirk; it's a fundamental refusal to put in the effort necessary to achieve their desires. Their hands, the instruments of work, are inactive and unwilling. Because they won't work, their desires remain unfulfilled, leading to the "death" described earlier.

In essence, the verse highlights the importance of hard work and diligence. It warns against the danger of simply wanting things without being willing to put in the necessary effort to obtain them. It emphasizes that desires alone are not enough; action is crucial for a fulfilling and productive life. The sluggard's desires become a curse, constantly reminding them of what they could have been, but were too lazy to achieve.

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