Proverbs 12:11 He that tills his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that follows vain persons is void of understanding.
‘He that tills his land shall be satisfied with bread.’ Two examples of tilling: are Isaac (Gen. 26:12) and Jacob (Gen. 30:14; cp. Pro. 28:19).
Matthew 10:10, Lucas 10:7 and 1 Timothy 5:18 all clearly state that the workman is worthy of his meat or labour (12:14) and 2 Thessalonians 3:10 that if any would not work, neither should he eat. This principle is based upon the part of the curse to make a living by the sweat of the brow (Gen. 3:19). Idleness has always been a curse and always will be. It is wrong to support men who will not work and share their own responsibility. Ephesians 4:28 explains that we should not steal (even through begging) from others but rather labour and work with his hands that which is good.
‘He that follows vain persons is void of understanding.’ Two examples of the following of vain persons: are Abimelech (Jdg. 9:1-57; cp. Pro. 24:21) and Theudas (Acts 5:36-37). Being void of understanding means one does not have the wisdom to discern evil (7:7) and most people are followers of such individuals which will most certainly lead to their own downfall. We are commanded to follow Christ and the example He set for us (1Pet. 2:21-23).
Living the Word 