In Scripture, idleness is depicted as a state that can lead to spiritual and moral decay. The book of Proverbs warns that idle hands can lead to worthless and troublesome pursuits, as seen in Proverbs 16:27. The apostle Paul instructs the Thessalonians that those who refuse to work should not eat, emphasizing the importance of diligence and responsibility, as stated in 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12. Similarly, 1 Timothy 5:13 cautions against idleness, which can lead to gossip and meddling, while 1 Thessalonians 4:11 encourages believers to lead quiet and peaceful lives, working with their own hands.
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For even while we were with you, we gave you this command: “If anyone is unwilling to work, he shall not eat.” Yet we hear that some of you are leading undisciplined lives and accomplishing nothing but being busybodies. We command and urge such people by our Lord Jesus Christ to begin working quietly to earn their own living.
At the same time they will also learn to be idle, going from house to house and being not only idle, but also gossips and busybodies, discussing things they should not mention.
Repay them according to their deeds and for their works of evil. Repay them for what their hands have done; bring back on them what they deserve.
and to aspire to live quietly, to attend to your own matters, and to work with your own hands, as we instructed you.