“Neither did we eat any man's bread for naught; but wrought with labor and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you.” Verse 8.
6. What labor was appointed man in consequence of the fall?
“In the sweat of thy face shall thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground.” Gen. 3:19.
Note.—A life of laborious and perpetual toil, in a world cursed with weeds, thorns, and thistles, was appointed to man in consequence of the entrance of sin. This was a part of the curse. And yet even this was appointed in love, and, under existing circumstances, is a blessing in disguise. It was a discipline rendered necessary because of sin, to place a check upon the indulgence of appetite and passion, to develop habits of industry and self-control, and to teach lessons on overcoming evil. Were not man called to labor thus, his sins and miseries would be multiplied manyfold.
7. What are some of the results of industry?
“He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread.” Prov. 28:19. “The hand of the diligent maketh rich.” Prov. 10:4. “The soul of the diligent shall be made fat.” Prov. 13:4.
8. What results from slackness and indolence in business?
“He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand.” Prov. 10:4. “The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing.” Prov. 13:4.
9. What does Solomon say concerning diligence in business?
“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.” Eccl. 9:10. “Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.” Prov. 27:23. “He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.” Prov. 10:5.