SLOTHFUL-Loose, undisciplined, Hebrew term can refer to a bow not strung or equipped with an arrow for action (Ps 78:57; Hos 7:16). A similar or related Hebrew root describes a loose tongue or mind as deceitful (Job 13:7; 27:4; Pss 32:2; 52:4; Mic 6:12). The slothful person cannot lead but becomes subjected to another’s rule (Prov 12:24; 10:4; 19:15). God’s work must not be done in such a spirit (Jer 48:10). A second Hebrew term refers to that which is difficult, heavy, or hindered and indicates foolish laziness or      

sluggishness. The tribe of Dan was encouraged to take the new territory and not be slothful or reluctant (Judg 18:9). The wise, hardworking ant illustrates the opposite of sloth (Prov 6:6), while the sloth wants only to sleep (Prov 6:9; 10:26; 13:4; 15:19; 19:24; 20:4; 21:25; 22:13; 24:30; 26:16). The virtuous woman is the opposite of slothful, not having to live with the results of idle slothfulness (Prov 31:27). Ecclesiastes 10:18 says, “Because of utter laziness, the roof caves in, because of idle hands, the house leaks” (HCSB). Jesus condemned and evil, lazy slave (Matt 25:26) but praised and rewarded the “good and faithful slave” (Matt 25:23 HCSB).