As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to them that send him.
As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.
As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to a heavy heart.
He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.
Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:
which say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day.
His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strewed:
not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
that ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.