Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing tasks that need to be completed. It is something that most people struggle with to some degree. When procrastination becomes a habit, it can have negative effects on our lives and relationships. The Bible has quite a bit to say about procrastination and diligence.
One of the most direct biblical passages about procrastination is Proverbs 6:6-11 which says:
Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest. How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.
This passage compares a lazy person to an ant. Ants work diligently and plan ahead without someone telling them what to do. The writer warns that if you sleep instead of work, poverty will come upon you. This speaks directly against a procrastinating lifestyle. We should follow the ant’s example and work hard without delay.
Ecclesiastes 10:18 also warns about laziness leading to dysfunction saying, “Through sloth the roof sinks in, and through indolence the house leaks.” Procrastination allows problems to pile up and get worse. What may have been an easy fix at first, turns into a big mess if left unattended.
In the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus tells of a master who entrusted his servants with money while he was away. Two of the servants invested the money and doubled what they were given. However, the third servant buried his share to keep it safe. When the master returned, he was angry that the servant did not put the money to good use. Jesus concludes in verse 29, “For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.” This parable illustrates that God expects us to make the most of what He has given us. We should not procrastinate or be lazy with the gifts, skills and resources God provides.
Proverbs 13:4 warns that, “The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.” Procrastination leads to missed opportunities and regret. While getting started on tasks requires effort, it is rewarding in the end. Finishing work and making progress fills the soul in a way lounging never does.
We also learn in Proverbs 21:25-26 that, “The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor. All day long he craves and craves, but the righteous gives and does not hold back.” The passage suggests laziness leads to perpetual dissatisfaction. While the righteous experience the joy of generosity, the slothful are trapped in their self-centered cravings.
Several verses point out that procrastination can lead to harm:
I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. (Proverbs 24:30-31)
Whoever is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys. (Proverbs 18:9)
Putting off work allows problems to go unchecked. Repairs and maintenance don’t happen. Weeds take root. Eventually, procrastination leads to deterioration and destruction.
The Bible praises diligent workers and emphasizes acting swiftly rather than delaying:
In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty. (Proverbs 14:23)
The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor. (Proverbs 12:24)
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring. (Proverbs 27:1)
We don’t know what tomorrow holds, so it is important to make the most of each day. Diligence leads to blessings and prosperity.
Ecclesiastes 9:10 gives a similar reminder: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.” We only have one life to live for God, so we should make it count each day.
The Bible makes it clear that procrastination is not part of God’s plan for our lives. So what should we do when we struggle with it? Here are some tips based on biblical principles:
1. Start with prayer and wise planning
The first step is to commit our activities to God in prayer. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” Asking for God’s direction is essential. Psalm 90:12 also reminds us to “Number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Taking time to plan and prioritize each day allows us to focus on what matters most.
2. Focus on today’s tasks
Thinking too far ahead can be overwhelming. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Give your concerns to God and concentrate on doing your best with the responsibilities of today.
3. Watch your thoughts and attitude
Avoid dwelling on negative thoughts that discourage you from trying your best and being diligent. “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8)
4. Find accountability
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 states that two are better than one. Ask a friend or spouse to check on your progress. Staying accountable to someone provides motivation to follow through. Offer to do the same for them.
5. Take it one step at a time
Don’t get overwhelmed looking at the big picture. Break tasks down into smaller action steps. Accomplishing something – even a small thing – can build momentum.
6. Remain flexible and patient
Things don’t always go as planned. When the unexpected happens, take a deep breath and reset your priorities if needed. “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9). Trust that God knows what He is doing.
7. Reward yourself incrementally
As you achieve steps along the way, celebrate small wins. Finishing a section of a big project deserves a pat on the back. Self-encouragement keeps you moving forward.
8. Review your progress
At the end of each day, reflect on what went well and what needs improvement. Philippians 3:13-14 says, “…one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Regular evaluation helps you continually improve.
9. Rely on God’s strength
When we feel weak, the Lord promises to renew our strength if we wait upon Him (Isaiah 40:31). His grace is sufficient for whatever we face (2 Corinthians 12:9). We can’t overcome challenges alone, but through Christ, we can do all things (Philippians 4:13).
The Bible warns against the pitfalls of slothfulness and encourages diligence. With God’s help and some practical strategies, we can avoid procrastination weighing us down and accomplish the good works God planned for us (Ephesians 2:10). Consistent daily effort leads to tremendous progress over time. Let’s encourage one another to steward each day well for God’s glory!