In the animal kingdom the sloth is docile, but in the human kingdom slothfulness is deadly. Sin is not only about the things we do but also about the things we don’t do. In Js 4:17 God’s word makes it clear…not doing what we should do is SIN! Inattention and procrastination allow problems to get worse; opportunities to be missed, and people to be hurt. Laziness causes marital conflict, lack of attention causes problems with children, lack of concern causes hurt and anger. Procrastination causes regret. The greatest of which is a life lived without Christ because of putting him off until tomorrow. This can ultimately lead to an eternity of regret without Christ.

Scriptures
Js 4:17, 1:8; Ec 11:4; Pr 29:25, 18:9, 13:4, 15:19, 20:4, 22:13, 27:1; 13:16, Eph 5:16; Phil 4:13; Gal 6:9

Verse
If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them. (Js 4:17) If you wait for perfect conditions you will never get anything done. (Ec 11:4) Make good use of every opportunity you have, because these are evil days. (Eph 5:16)

Thought
Many things cause us to procrastinate: indecision, perfectionism, fear, anger, laziness. In order the break the bad of slothfulness/procrastination there are steps we must take. (1) Stop Making Excuses. You will never move forward until you assume responsibility and begin doing what needs to be done. (2) Launch Today. Begin now. There are no guarantees about tomorrow. Today is the day! (3) Operate with a Plan. Establish a schedule, block out time to plan your week. Take advantage of every opportunity you have. (4) Take on Your Fears. Identify your fears. Facing fear is the best way to disarm it. (5) Highlight the Gain. Look at the reward that is waiting beyond the pain. Making change is hard work initially, but as you gain a new rhythm in your life it will get easier and the rewards will be sweet.

Questions
Is there anything regarding your family that you have been putting off that you know you need to do or change? What about your personal life? Vocationally are you honoring God by working to the best of your ability? In your Christian life is there anything you have you been putting off–daily Bible reading, prayer, serving, giving?

Response
If there is an area where you have been inattentive, slothful, lazy or procrastinating, take the steps above to move forward. Confide in a Christian friend to hold you accountable. Each week track your efforts, follow your plan and make sure you are continuing to make progress.

Prayer
Father, give me the strength to move forward and stop putting off what I know I should do. Encourage me along the way and help me to be the person you’ve called me to be. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.