Proverbs 6:11

and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and need like a bandit.

Study Bible

and poverty
The Hebrew word for "poverty" here is "רֵישׁ" (resh), which signifies a state of destitution or lack. In the context of Proverbs, poverty is often portrayed as a consequence of laziness or poor stewardship. The Bible consistently encourages diligence and wise management of resources as a means to avoid such a state. This phrase serves as a warning that neglecting one's responsibilities can lead to a lack of provision, emphasizing the importance of hard work and prudence.

will come upon you
The phrase "will come upon you" suggests an inevitability and suddenness. The Hebrew verb "בּוֹא" (bo) implies an arrival or coming. This reflects the idea that the consequences of one's actions, or inactions, are certain and will manifest in due time. It serves as a reminder that ignoring wisdom and discipline will lead to unavoidable outcomes, reinforcing the biblical principle of sowing and reaping.

like a robber
The imagery of a "robber" (Hebrew: "מִתְהַלֵּךְ" - mithalech) conveys the unexpected and aggressive nature of poverty's arrival. Just as a robber takes by force and without warning, so too can poverty seize those who are unprepared. This metaphor highlights the urgency of being vigilant and proactive in one's life, echoing the biblical call to be watchful and diligent in all things.

and need
The word "need" in Hebrew is "מַחְסוֹר" (machsor), which denotes a lack or deficiency. This term underscores the idea that neglecting one's duties can lead to a state of want. The Bible often contrasts need with God's provision, encouraging believers to trust in God's faithfulness while also being responsible stewards of what they have been given.

like a bandit
The term "bandit" (Hebrew: "אִישׁ מָגֵן" - ish magen) further emphasizes the sudden and forceful nature of the consequences of slothfulness. A bandit, much like a robber, acts with stealth and aggression, taking what is not theirs. This comparison serves as a stark warning that failing to heed wisdom and discipline can lead to dire and unexpected outcomes. It calls believers to be vigilant and to live lives marked by diligence and foresight.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He wrote Proverbs to impart wisdom and understanding.

2. The Sluggard
While not a specific person, the "sluggard" is a recurring character in Proverbs, representing laziness and a lack of diligence.

3. Poverty and Need
These are personified in this verse as a robber and a bandit, illustrating the sudden and unexpected nature of their arrival.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Laziness
Laziness leads to poverty and need, which can come upon a person suddenly and unexpectedly, much like a thief in the night.

The Importance of Diligence
Diligence and hard work are virtues that protect against the sudden onset of poverty and need. Christians are called to be industrious and responsible.

Spiritual Vigilance
Just as physical laziness leads to material poverty, spiritual laziness can lead to spiritual poverty. Believers must be vigilant in their spiritual disciplines.

The Value of Preparedness
Being prepared and proactive in life can prevent the negative consequences that come from neglect and idleness.

Trust in God's Provision
While diligence is important, believers must also trust in God's provision and not rely solely on their own efforts.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of a robber and a bandit in Proverbs 6:11 help us understand the consequences of laziness?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of diligence in our daily lives, both physically and spiritually?

3. How does the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25 relate to the teachings in Proverbs 6:11 about the importance of using our resources wisely?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to avoid spiritual laziness and ensure we are growing in our faith?

5. How can we balance the biblical call to work diligently with the need to trust in God's provision and not become overly self-reliant?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 24:33-34
This passage echoes the warning of Proverbs 6:11, emphasizing the consequences of laziness and the suddenness of poverty's arrival.

Matthew 25:14-30
The Parable of the Talents highlights the importance of diligence and the consequences of slothfulness, similar to the warnings in Proverbs.

2 Thessalonians 3:10
Paul instructs that if anyone is unwilling to work, they should not eat, reinforcing the biblical principle of diligence and responsibility.