No Sluggards Allowed

"The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied."  Proverbs 13:4  

We are enjoying our visit with the in-laws this week.  Our time together is short, but we are making good use of each moment.

Since the kids were little, one of the fascinations of coming to Grandma and Grandpa’s house is the chance they have to do a little “driving”.  Grandma uses an electric wheelchair to get anywhere of great distance, and it is parked in the living room at all times.  When Grandma isn’t using it, the kids like to push the buttons to get it to move forwards, backwards, and even turn in circles.

 Today, Grandma asked the kids to put it back in it’s parking spot and I hear Kyle say, “Man, I’d love to have one of these.” 

“Why?” I asked.

“That way when I am tired I can ride this around the house.”

I’m sure that Kyle wouldn’t like it too much if he had to use a wheelchair every day, to get everywhere he needed to get to.  Sometimes, however, the opportunity to be lazy seems more appealing.  With two able arms, and two able legs, it is still easy to become a sluggard of great proportion. 

Working hard will bring great satisfaction and blessing to my children’s lives.  I pray that they always choose to work hard, never give up, and make wise decisions on how to use their time.  In turn, I’m sure that God will use them for great and mighty things. 

Lord, thank you for the amazing way you make our bodies. My children’s hands, each with five flexible fingers, and many muscles and abilities, can do great things for you.  They can give to the needy, hold hands with the hurting, hug the lonely, and work hard for your kingdom.  Their feet can move them to go wherever you send them. And their legs can help them stand firm in your calling on their life.  Lord, I pray that they use their bodies in beautiful ways to please you, and share you with the world.  Give them the fervor to work hard.  Remove any tendencies to be a sluggard.  While at the same time, don’t allow them to become workaholics, not taking care of their bodies, and neglecting the important people in their lives.  Lord, you make our bodies to do amazing things, and to do them for you.  May we always glorify you with our actions and deeds, dear Jesus.