The Consequences of Neglect

Day Sixty-Six

The Consequences of Neglect (Read Proverbs 24:23-34)

²³ Here are some further sayings of the wise:

It is wrong to show favoritism when passing judgment.
²⁴ A judge who says to the wicked, “You are innocent,”
    will be cursed by many people and denounced by the nations.
²⁵ But it will go well for those who convict the guilty;
    rich blessings will be showered on them.

²⁶ An honest answer
    is like a kiss of friendship.

²⁷ Do your planning and prepare your fields
    before building your house.

²⁸ Don’t testify against your neighbors without cause;
    don’t lie about them.
²⁹ And don’t say, “Now I can pay them back for what they’ve done to me!
    I’ll get even with them!”

³⁰ I walked by the field of a lazy person,
    the vineyard of one with no common sense.
³¹ I saw that it was overgrown with nettles.
    It was covered with weeds,
    and its walls were broken down.
³² Then, as I looked and thought about it,
    I learned this lesson:
³³ A little extra sleep, a little more slumber,
    a little folding of the hands to rest—
³⁴ then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit;
    scarcity will attack you like an armed robber.

"Indifference and neglect often do much more damage than outright dislike." ~ J. K. Rowling

Reflection:

The final part of Proverbs 24 vividly describes the devastating consequences of neglect, using the image of a neglected field overgrown with weeds and broken walls. This image is a powerful metaphor for various aspects of life—spiritual, personal, and relational. When we neglect our responsibilities, relationships, or spiritual growth, we invite chaos and character defects to take root.

Neglect often begins with seemingly harmless decisions—“a little extra sleep, a little more slumber”—but these small choices can add up to significant consequences over time. The passage warns that poverty and scarcity will pounce on us like a bandit, catching us off guard. This warning serves as a reminder that diligence and attentiveness are necessary to maintain the health and well-being of our lives. Just as a garden requires regular care to flourish, so do our relationships, work, and walk with God.

"Neglect starts out as an infection, then becomes a disease." ~ Jim Rohn

The earlier verses in this passage provide practical wisdom to counteract neglect. They encourage us to seek justice, speak honestly, plan wisely, and avoid deceit. Showing favoritism or lying to get ahead may seem beneficial in the short term, but such actions lead to a breakdown in trust and community, much like the crumbling walls of the neglected vineyard. In contrast, integrity and careful planning lay a foundation for lasting success and prosperity.

This passage also touches on the importance of self-reflection. As the author of Proverbs walked by the neglected field and reflected on its state, he gained valuable insight. We, too, should take time to examine our lives regularly. Are there areas we are neglecting? Are we allowing weeds of bitterness, laziness, or dishonesty to take root? Are we upholding justice and fairness, or are we tempted to take shortcuts?

God calls us to live with diligence and integrity, in a Jesus-centered way, not just to avoid the consequences of neglect but to build a life that reflects His glory. When we commit to cultivating our hearts, minds, and relationships with care, we experience the rich blessings of a life well-lived, grounded in wisdom and righteousness. We then prepared to live a life of love and service.

Reflection Questions

Take a few moments today to reflect on areas of your life that may need more attention.

• Whatever your spiritual walk, relationships, work, or personal growth, what are one or two specific actions you can take to address any neglect? Commit to these changes and ask God to give you the wisdom and strength to follow through.
• What preventative actions can you take to help ensure the weeds of neglect don’t sprout? Remember, slight, consistent efforts can prevent the weeds of neglect from taking over and ensure you are cultivating a life of purpose and integrity.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, open our eyes to see the areas of our lives we may neglect. Please help us be diligent and attentive in caring for our responsibilities, relationships, and spiritual growth. Teach us to seek justice, speak truthfully, and act with integrity. May we learn from the wisdom of Proverbs and avoid the pitfalls of laziness and neglect. Strengthen us to live in a way that honors You and brings blessings to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May God bless your hearing, understanding, and application of today's wisdom.