12 Bible Verses About Laziness

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

Are you struggling with laziness? The Bible has plenty to say about this topic.

In this article, we will explore twelve powerful Bible verses about laziness, including Proverbs 6:6-11 and 2 Thessalonians 3:10.

We will also discuss the importance of hard work and diligence, the consequences of laziness, and practical advice on how to avoid it.

If you want to learn more about this topic, we recommend reading Proverbs 6 and Proverbs 26, which provide valuable insights into the dangers of laziness.

Bible verses about laziness

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about laziness:

1. Proverbs 6:6-11 – “Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest. How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep? Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.”
2. Proverbs 10:4 – “He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.”
3. Proverbs 12:24 – “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.”
4. Proverbs 13:4 – “The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.”
5. Proverbs 15:19 – “The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous is made plain.”
6. Proverbs 19:15 – “Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.”

7. Proverbs 20:4 – “The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.”
8. Proverbs 21:25 – “The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour.”
9. Proverbs 22:13 – “The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.”
10. Proverbs 24:30-34 – “I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction. Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.”
11. Ecclesiastes 10:18 – “By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through idleness of the hands the house droppeth through.”
12. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 – “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.”

What does the Bible say about laziness?

The Bible speaks against laziness and encourages hard work and diligence.

It emphasizes the importance of being productive and responsible with one’s time and resources.

Laziness is seen as a hindrance to personal growth, success, and spiritual development.

The Bible also warns against the consequences of laziness, such as poverty, hunger, and shame.

It encourages individuals to use their talents and abilities to serve others and glorify God.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about laziness?

Proverbs 6 and Proverbs 26 are two chapters in the Bible that discuss laziness in depth.

Proverbs 6:6-11 talks about the ant, which is known for its hard work and diligence. The chapter emphasizes the importance of being proactive and not being lazy, as laziness can lead to poverty and ruin.

Proverbs 26:13-16 compares a lazy person to a door on its hinges, which constantly swings back and forth but never goes anywhere. The chapter highlights the negative consequences of laziness, such as missed opportunities and lack of productivity.

Overall, these chapters in Proverbs provide practical advice on how to avoid laziness and the negative effects it can have on one’s life.

Ideas and concepts related to laziness that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.

1. Slothfulness: Slothfulness is the state of being lazy or idle. In the Bible, slothfulness is condemned as a sin. Proverbs 6:6-11 warns against the dangers of being lazy and advises people to learn from the ant, which is diligent and hardworking.

2. Idleness: Idleness is the state of being inactive or doing nothing. In the Bible, idleness is also condemned as a sin. 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 advises people to work and earn their own living, rather than being idle and depending on others.

3. Procrastination: Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing tasks. In the Bible, procrastination is also seen as a form of laziness. Ecclesiastes 11:4 advises people to take action and not delay, as no one knows what the future holds.

4. Complacency: Complacency is the state of being satisfied with one’s current situation and not striving for improvement. In the Bible, complacency is also condemned as a sin. Revelation 3:15-16 warns against being lukewarm and advises people to be zealous and passionate in their faith.

All of these related concepts are linked to laziness because they involve a lack of effort, motivation, and diligence. The Bible encourages people to be diligent, hardworking, and proactive in their lives, rather than being lazy and idle.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.