“A wise youth works hard all summer; a youth who sleeps away the hour of opportunity brings shame.”
Proverbs 10:5 (NLT)
This morning my thoughts turned to my daddy.
As I reflected on this verse, I couldn’t help but smile. Daddy may not have quoted this scripture to us often, but he certainly lived it. He never gave me or my brothers and sisters much opportunity to sleep away the day or avoid responsibility. There was always work to be done, and he made sure we learned how to do it.
At the time, I must admit, I wasn’t always thankful. There were mornings I would have rather slept in, afternoons I would have rather played, and chores I would have rather avoided. But looking back now, I see the wisdom in what he was teaching us.
He wasn’t just teaching us how to work. He was teaching us character.
The book of Proverbs also says:
“Lazy people are soon poor; hard workers get rich.”
Proverbs 10:4 (NLT)
Daddy understood that hard work is a gift. It develops perseverance, responsibility, and gratitude. The lessons he planted in us as children have continued to bear fruit throughout our lives.
Today, my brothers, sisters, and I all agree that our daddy was wise. The work ethic he instilled in us has served us well. More importantly, it taught us to honor God by being faithful with the opportunities and responsibilities He places before us.
As I thank God for my earthly father today, I am reminded that our Heavenly Father also teaches us through loving discipline and wise instruction. He knows that the habits we develop today help shape the people we become tomorrow.
Prayer
Father, thank You for the gift of a wise daddy who taught his children the value of hard work. Thank You for the lessons he planted in our hearts and the example he set before us. Please continue to bless him and bless each of us as we faithfully work and serve You. Help us never waste the opportunities You place before us, but to use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
