The saying, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop,” has been around for years. Idleness is a recipe for displeasure, restlessness and despondency. Paul wrote in 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12, “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.”
The greatest example anyone could follow is the Lord (1 Peter 2:21). Although it is not mentioned as often as other attributes, our Lord was one who was always busy in His work. We need to be like Jesus and occupy ourselves by going about doing good. Acts 10:38 says, “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.”
The Christian’s obligation is to stay active in the work of the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58; Ecclesiastes 9:10). Romans 12:11 says, “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord …” When God created man, He gave him a job (Genesis 2:15). Therefore, work and activity are good for us. It is shameful to see a man who could support his family allowing them to suffer because of his laziness. A man who will not work disobeys God’s commands and will never achieve full joy in Christ.
Kyle Campbell
