Proverbs 10:26

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition 2021

Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so are the lazy to their employers.

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It is like cutting off one’s foot and drinking down violence, to send a message by a fool.

Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest are faithful messengers to those who send them; they refresh the spirit of their masters.

so that you may not become sluggish but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

But his master replied, ‘You wicked and lazy slave! You knew, did you, that I reap where I did not sow and gather where I did not scatter?

Like vinegar on a wound is one who sings songs to a heavy heart. Like a moth in clothing or a worm in wood, sorrow gnaws at the human heart.

Do not lag in zeal; be ardent in spirit; serve the Lord.

who say, “Keep to yourself; do not come near me, for I am too holy for you.” These are a smoke in my nostrils, a fire that burns all day long.

Go to the ant, you lazybones; consider its ways and be wise.