How do you stop being lazy?

Question:

I know that being lazy in general is a sin, but it's really hard to stop. I do well and then I backtrack. I even stopped my gluttony issues when it comes to food, but this is something I'm struggling with. Any help?

Answer:

Laziness is an attitude of wanting to get by with the least amount of effort. "How long will you slumber, O sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep -- so shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, and your need like an armed man" (Proverbs 6:9-11). Notice that it isn't always complete lassitude. Laziness is accumulative, putting off something here and another thing there until suddenly you're overwhelmed by all the things that need to be done.

The answer, however, is similar. Doing a bit here and a bit there also adds up. "Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, which, having no captain, overseer or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest" (Proverbs 6:6-8). It isn't the major accomplishments that create productivity; it is the willingness to do bits and pieces here and there that move you closer to a goal.

Like any other sin, laziness is a choice. "But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you; nor did we eat anyone's bread free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us. For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat" (II Thessalonians 3:6-10). I can't make you be productive, you have to choose it for yourself.

Therefore, use your spare moments to get something small accomplished. Before you know it, you'll be accomplishing big things.

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