Spiritual Warfare #47

A Landmine That Robs Us of Purpose and Motivation by Charles Stanley
Slothfulness or laziness is inexcusable. Usually the person who struggles with this landmine also exhibits signs of much deeper problems-low self-esteem, pride, and a passive-aggressive attitude. In 2 Thessalonians, Paul wrote to a group of believers who had become lazy in their devotion to God and in their work. Before you hesitate to read further because you think this may not apply to your life, ask yourself, Am I doing my best? or Do I offer something much less to my employer and coworkers as a result of taking shortcuts and procrastinating?

Many of the Thessalonians were not working. Instead, they expected the church to take care of them. When Paul got word of their dismal state, he penned them that while Jesus had not returned, God was indeed faithful to His promises. The Savior would return. Therefore, until He did, they were to remain diligent in every area. That meant going back to work! But laziness is not confined to the area of employment. We can become lazy or slothful in relationships, our approach to life, and even how we deal with problems.

Attitudes of laziness can be very difficult to overcome because they involve motivation. A lazy person usually is someone who has given up trying. He becomes convinced that he does not have what it takes to make it-in relationships, on the job, or in society. So, he becomes lazy and allows others to go before him.

During your lifetime, you will make mistakes. Plus, your best may not look like that of someone else. Never compare what you do to others.

All of us know people who are lazy and seem to be floundering professionally and personally. They really do not contribute to society, but they are the first ones to line up for a handout. They have ability, but they don't want to use it. From God's perspective, this is sin.

Tomorrow we'll look at procrastination. We're almost done with the book, as this is the last chapter. I hope you've enjoyed it, even if it was uncomfortable. Our walk should not be comfortable all the time, less we stop growing. I hope you feel stretched, motivated for change, or, if these aren't areas you struggle with now, that you tuck them away in your heart and remember where to find them if you need them. May God give you the courage and opportunity to speak into others' lives as situations call for it. We're all in this process together. God bless!