Theme: PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
Text: “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:10.
Comment: The Bible pours scorn and rebuke on the idle or lazy man but continually emphasizes that blessings come to those who labour, and that these blessings come with peace. St Paul said they laboured, working with their own hands. (1 Corinthians 4:12) He also stated “I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35) Some able-bodied persons refuse to work because they are unwilling to do so in view of the wealth or position of their parents. Yet they have very high opinion of what they are entitled to in terms of amenities. When such privileges do not come to them as expected or the benefits stop flowing, they engage in shady dealings to enable them satisfy their very high tastes. Rather than wallowing in laziness and engaging in fraudulent practices, each person should prepare for his future by labouring to earn an honest living and thereby be of help to others, including the old, the young, the sick and the poor. “And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:11.