Over the past few weeks we have observed the prideful attitude, unrestrained speech, and quick temper of “the fool” described in Proverbs. To complete our picture of folly, we will now discuss the work ethic of the fool. The same lack of self-discipline apparent in his speech and temper is inevitably expressed in laziness as well.
Just as the fool fails to consider the consequences of his actions, he fails to consider the consequence of his inaction. “For the turning away of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them” (Prov 1:32). Despite the pains of poverty, he will not consider his ways and make the necessary changes. He is too preoccupied in the “here and now” to prevent his own destruction.
The fool’s laziness is not only harmful to himself, however. Those who do business with him will suffer the consequences as well. “He cuts off his own feet and drinks violence who sends a message by the hand of a fool” (Prov 26:6). “Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to those who send him” (Prov 10:26).
When referring to the fool’s laziness, Solomon often refers to him as “the sluggard.” His work can be compared to a slug or a sloth. Yet, Solomon urges him to consider the work ethic of a different creature: “Go to the ant, O sluggard, observe her ways and be wise, which, having no chief, officer or ruler, prepares her food in the summer and gathers her provision in the harvest” (Prov 6:6-8). While the sluggard cannot be prodded into working, the ants are constantly laboring on their own initiative. Come harvest time, the ant will have more to boast of than the fool.
Even if the fool stumbles upon wealth, it will not last him long. “There is desirable treasure, and oil in the dwelling of the wise, but the foolish man squanders it” (Prov 21:20). The prodigal living of the fool will burn through a fortune in no time. Yet, it is not likely the fool will ever have this prosperity to waste. “Those who set their hearts exclusively on rich feasting (wine and olive oil—Prov 21:17) rather than on the virtue by which they are acquired will never enjoy them” (Richard J. Clifford).
So, to avoid the poverty of the fool we must set our hearts on work, not wealth. We must focus on discipline and diligence, not just the prosperity they produce. Prosperity is of no lasting value without these virtues. The folly of laziness will devour wealth before we realize what has happened. “How long will you lie down, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—your poverty will come in like a vagabond and your need like an armed man” (Prov 6:9-11).