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Sermon Introduction

Wisdom makes itself clear; those who fear God should work well and ethically. Conversely, wisdom warns against worthless fantasies. Moreover, all talk without work does not bring earnings. Wisdom seekers should improve their skills to the level of outstanding excellence. Such might be a lifetime of work, yet for some, it could be less than five years. Some impossible dreams become realities if one works and works ethically. Yet there is one that may eclipse usual hard work. And that is work done by one who has mastered his craft.

Dr. Ed Pilapil Jr.
Senior Pastor

Proverbs 12:11

11 Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread,
but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense.

Proverbs 14:23

23 In all toil there is profit,
but mere talk tends only to poverty.

Proverbs 22:29

29 Do you see a man skillful in his work?
He will stand before kings;
he will not stand before obscure men.

Notes

Wisdom makes itself clear; those who fear God should work well and ethically. Conversely, wisdom warns against worthless fantasies. Moreover, all talk without work does not bring earnings. Wisdom seekers should improve their skills to the level of outstanding excellence. Such might be a lifetime of work, yet for some, it could be less than five years. Some impossible dreams become realities if one works and works ethically. Yet there is one that may eclipse usual hard work. And that is work done by one who has mastered his craft.

1. Worthless Pursuits

   Wisdom warns against worthless pursuits, goals that do not make sense. What makes sense is to work on the opportunities available now. Thus, work the land if you have land or excel in your job if you have one.
   
   11 Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread,
   but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense (Prov. 12:11).
   
   

2. More Work, Less Talk

   Some love to talk about their plans but never work on them. The result of all talk and no work is nothing. The wise approach is to work more and talk less. Diligent work will lead to learning and, hopefully, achievement.
   
   23 In all toil there is profit,
   but mere talk tends only to poverty (Prov. 14:23).
   
   

3. Notable Skills

   Joseph, David, and Jeroboam caught the attention of rulers before their promotions. They all exhibited skill, talent, and industry, which led them to an audience with the kings of their context.
   
   29 Do you see a man skillful in his work?
   He will stand before kings;
   he will not stand before obscure men (Prov. 22:29).
   
   

Application

1. Work

   If we earn a living, honor God from our pay, practice generosity, and build our reserves like the ant, then we are in the right direction. If we dare change our work, we should do so with good advice. Otherwise, do not dare.
   
   

2. Work Well

   There is nothing wrong with discussing our plans as long as we talk to the right people, likewise advisers. However, if all we do is talk, then nothing will be accomplished. We must plan the work and work the plan.
   
   

3. Work on Your Skills

   Mastery of any skill will take years to develop. Therefore, we must begin immediately. Let us not allow time to pass without making the most of it. Let us continuously study and practice until we are unable to.
   
   
   

Reflection & Discussion

1. Describe the person who lacks sense. Give examples of worthless pursuits.

2. What happens if it is all talk and no work?

3. What will happen to the person skilled in his work?