Proverbs 13:4 Commentary and Bible Study

Because a man is lazy, it does not mean that he ceases to desire good for himself. His desire is as alive as the next man’s, but sadly he is never going to obtain what he desires. He will be frustrated and his longings will not be satisfied because he has failed to connect the fulfilment of his desires with effort and hard work. The soul has been designed by God to experience desires but these are intended to be goads to spur us to action. Desire alone is never going to obtain anything. This is a rule both in this life and in the kingdom of heaven. If we desire communion with God, and knowledge of his word, and instrumentality in his kingdom to the winning of lost souls; if we desire these things and yet we are unwilling to obey God and to spend time drawing near to him in prayer; if we will not study his word, and if we are not prepared to serve him diligently in witnessing to others, then we can expect none of these blessings. The danger identified here is that of romantic thinking which neglects the normal cause and effect that God has put in place to obtain his favour. The truth about the sluggard is that he prefers rest even to those things that he thinks he desires. Some excuse themselves on the basis that because spiritual advance comes from the Lord, then they will do nothing. Because they are reliant on God to draw near to them, because he furnishes the mind with knowledge, and because his Spirit alone works regeneration in the heart of unbelieving men and women, then they will do nothing. But God has left a part for us to play in securing the blessing of God and advancing his kingdom, even though it is only a small part and must be done in dependence on him. Paul planted, and Apollos watered, but God gave the increase, yet without the planting and the watering, nothing would happen.