Proverbs 19:24 A slothful man hides his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.
There are eighteen traits for the slothful man noted in Scripture: Unteachable and careless – They resist instruction, show indifference, and refuse diligence (6:6-9). Love of sleep – They give themselves to excessive rest and idleness (9:9; 19:15; 24:33). An irritation to others – Their laziness becomes a burden and vexation (10:26). Subject to others – Instead of ruling, they end up as servants (12:24). Too lazy to finish tasks – Even neglecting to cook what they catch (12:27). Driven by wishful thinking – They crave but refuse to labour, living in fantasy rather than effort (13:4; 24:34). A troubled life – Their path is full of obstacles and hardship (15:19). Wasteful – They squander resources and opportunities (18:9). Habitually lazy -A defining trait in every area of life (19:24; 24:30-34; 26:14-15). Refuse to work – They avoid labour altogether, or do as little as possible (20:4; 21:25). Invent senseless excuses – Claiming danger where none exists (22:13; 26:13). Void of understanding – Their laziness reveals a lack of wisdom (24:30). Neglect property and responsibilities – Allowing decay and ruin (24:31-34; Eccl 10:18). Too sluggish to act – Even small efforts seem beyond them (26:14). Conceited – They consider themselves wiser than diligent workers (26:16). Unfaithful in stewardship – Cannot be trusted with responsibility (Matt. 25:26). Spiritually negligent – Marked by unbelief and lack of perseverance (Heb. 6:12). Ineffective in business – They lack zeal and ability in work (Rom. 12:11).
The “slothful man” is pictured as unteachable, self-deceiving, wasteful, and unreliable, a danger to himself and a burden to others. His laziness affects not just work but wisdom, stewardship, and even faith.
Living the Word 