Proverbs 6:11

“So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.”

Context:To understand the meaning of this verse, it’s important to consider its context within the book of Proverbs. The book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings and instructions attributed to King Solomon. It provides practical guidance for living a godly and successful life.

Laziness and Poverty:Proverbs 6:6-11 addresses the issue of laziness and its consequences. The passage begins with an admonition to observe the industriousness of ants, which work diligently to gather food during the summer months. The comparison highlights the importance of being diligent and hardworking to avoid the negative consequences of laziness.

Poverty as a Traveler:In verse 11, the metaphorical language describes poverty as coming upon a person like a traveler. Just as a traveler arrives unexpectedly and without warning, poverty can also come suddenly if a person is lazy and neglects their responsibilities. This verse emphasizes that poverty is not something that merely happens by chance, but it is often the result of a lack of diligence and perseverance.

Want as an Armed Man:The verse further states that want (lack or need) comes upon the lazy individual like an armed man. This imagery suggests that want or lack will confront the lazy person with force and urgency, similar to an armed robber. It highlights the severity and consequences of laziness in terms of personal and material needs going unmet.

Practical Application:Proverbs 6:11 serves as a warning against laziness and its potential consequences. It encourages individuals to be diligent, hardworking, and responsible in managing their affairs. By taking responsibility for our work and diligently attending to our duties, we can avoid the pitfalls of laziness and the resulting poverty.

• Spiritual Significance:While Proverbs primarily focuses on practical wisdom for daily living, we can also draw spiritual lessons from this verse. Diligence and hard work are valuable virtues that can be applied in various aspects of life, including our spiritual journey. We are called to be diligent in seeking a close relationship with God, studying His Word, and living according to His principles.

In summary, Proverbs 6:11 warns against laziness and highlights the potential consequences it can bring, including poverty and want. The verse encourages us to be diligent, responsible, and hardworking in all areas of life, both material and spiritual. By embracing these virtues, we can navigate through life with wisdom and avoid the negative consequences of laziness.