Proverbs 27:23 - Meaning and Application

Here is a command to be diligent in our work. It is aimed at farmers, shepherds, and livestock owners, but it applies to every lawful calling. Whatever our work is, indoors or outdoors, we must apply our minds to it.

This command teaches several things. First, we should have real work to do in this world and not live in idleness. Second, we should understand our work fully and know what belongs to it, instead of meddling in what we do not know. Third, we should keep an eye on it ourselves and not leave all the care to others. A master’s own eye helps make the flock thrive. Fourth, we should be wise and thoughtful in managing our affairs, knowing the state of things and watching carefully so nothing is lost and no chance slips by. Everything should be done at the right time and in good order, so it brings the best result. Fifth, we must work hard and take pains. It is not enough to plan. We must also get up and do the work, setting our heart on it and giving ourselves to it.

There are good reasons for this command. One is the uncertainty of worldly wealth (Proverbs 27:24). Riches do not last forever. Some kinds of wealth are less lasting than the flock and herd of a farm. Trade and business wealth may pass away, and even a family crown may be less secure than flocks and herds. But even these things can decay if no one looks after them. A large estate can be worn down by laziness and waste. Even a kingdom and its income will suffer if they are not carefully managed. Though David had the crown promised to his family, he still looked carefully after his flocks (1 Chronicles 27:29, 1 Chronicles 27:31).

Another reason is the kindness of nature, or better, the kindness of the God of nature and his care for us (Proverbs 27:25). The hay appears. In caring for flocks and herds, there is no great burden of plowing and sowing. Their food grows on its own from the ground. In summer, when the grass appears, we only need to lead them to it and gather the mountain plants for winter. God has done his part. We are ungrateful if we refuse to do ours and serve his providence. There is also a time to watch for and use well. The hay appears only for a season, and if that time is missed, the animals will suffer. Like the ant, we should store up food in summer.

A third reason is the profit of good management in a household. Keep your sheep, and your sheep will help keep you. You will have food for your children and servants, enough goats’ milk for the house, and enough is as good as a feast (Proverbs 27:27). You will also have clothing, since the wool of the lambs will cover you. You will have money to pay what you owe, and the goats you sell will pay for your field. Some understand this even more strongly: careful work may let a man buy land and leave it to his children (Proverbs 27:26).

The lesson is plain. If we have food, clothing, and enough to give each person what is due, we have enough, and we should be content and thankful. Heads of households must provide not only for themselves, but also for their families and servants. Plain food and plain clothing are enough if they are suitable. We should count ourselves well provided for if we are clothed with cloth from our own flock and fed with the milk of our own goats. We should not chase rich foods and costly things.

This should also encourage us to be careful and hardworking in our calling. Diligence can bring in enough to support our households. We will eat the fruit of our labor.