Vice And VirtueSample

In the remaining three days of this study, let’s consider what the last three vices and virtues look like in the practical sphere of relationships. 

Day Nine:

Sloth: Human’s actions are useless

VS.

Diligence: Human’s actions have purpose

Day Ten:

Envy: Humans are threats

VS.

Kindness: Humans are friends

Day Eleven:

Lust: Humans are commodities

VS.

Chastity: Humans have dignity

Sloth is defined as a mental, spiritual or physical state of disinclination to exert oneself. By wrestling through this definition, we see that this vice is so much more than simple laziness. “Disinclination to exert oneself” could also be expressed as an unwillingness to do or believe something. So Sloth could also be described as a type of soul sickness or giving up. This vice tries to convince a person that nothing they could do would ever make a difference so what’s the point of trying? Or as Thomas Aquinas said, Sloth is "sorrow about spiritual good."1

Contrast this to the virtue of Diligence which is defined as persistence or perseverance. This steadfastness of work ethic can show itself in nearly every sphere of human existence: dogged dedication to family, spiritual discipline, integrity, kindness, health, justice … the list is endless. 

Said another way, Diligence is practical application of hope. Instead of facing the challenges before us with hopelessness, apathy or despair, Diligence acts on the truth that daily faithfulness does make a difference. As Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.”

The book of Proverbs gives a very practical and familiar example for sluggards to study: the ant. We can learn many things from this industrious tiny creature. 

1. Ants don’t avoid hard work, but they also have times of inactivity (rest).

2. Although they have no task master over them, ants work together in a harmonious way; their motivation is intrinsic. 

3. Their labors provide for the entire community, both now and for the future.

4. Though they are physically small, their persistent dedication and team effort make them successful.

5. Even when they are under stress or hardship, ants never give up. They constantly work for the safety and strength of their community.

For Day Nine Today, consider places in your own life where you’ve given up because the challenges seem to substantial to overcome. Are there small steps of Diligence that you could make, trusting that nothing is too difficult for God?

¹ Aquinas, Summa Theologica.