Proverbs 6:6-11 (KJV) - Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest. How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep? Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.

Within the workplace, there seems to always be someone that doesn't want to do their job. They try to find every reason why they can't do something or try to 'pawn' their tasks unto someone else. Now, most of us have been a victim to such acts (and if the truth be told), we may have been the one doing the pawning at some point.

Sometimes we may not even try to pawn a task, we just don't do it. We give every reason 'under the sun' why something could not be done. We'd rather spend our time talking, walking around the office, and looking busy rather than being busy. (These are the people that the boss must constantly monitor to ensure they are properly doing their job.) Looking busy and being busy are two different things and believe me, your boss and co-workers know the difference.

Then there are those that accomplish a great deal on their jobs without someone telling them. They take the initiative to see the fruition of their work; they support others; and do their best to make their section and those around them better. With the scripture listed above, though this entry is not referring to food, it does speak to preparation and the results (or fruits) of such labor. With both types of individuals (whether they know it or not), are investing in their future. Each will receive the 'fruits' of their labor (or lack thereof).

So what becomes of these individuals?!

The Pawner

Many times they are view negatively, passed over for promotion, removed from positions, and are unable to fulfill their desires. They may always have more dreams (of success) than realities...and they have the potential to negatively affect those around them. For the most part, they want to be successful, but they are unwilling to do what it takes to achieve it. They want to receive the most by giving the least.

Those that may be considered a 'pawner' can make a change for the 'better,' but for many of them; this is a complete overhaul of their thought life, attitude, and actions. They must believe change is possible (Philippians 4:13) - for many, this is the hardest to overcome. After so many years of mediocre work and behavior, they may not see themselves as worthy of change or even able to achieve it. Change must begin with going to the Lord for prayer and assistance (grace, mercy, and help) to help them along the way - little by little...step by step.

The Motivated Worker

Just as the scripture above illustrates, they will have 'food' (provision) to meet their needs just when they need it. The work they accomplish today will help themselves (and others) today and tomorrow. They place themselves in a position to accomplish their goals and fulfill everything they set out to do (within God's will of course).

If you are a motivated worker and you see the 'pawner' (or know of one), pray for them and continue to plant seeds of belief, hope, and promise within their lives (as the Lord allows). Though we may not understand the circumstances behind their behavior or decisions, our loving Father does...(1 Corinthians 3:1-9).