There is another category of idleness. In Jesus’ parable, the master asked the idle laborers, “Why have you been idle all day?” Their answer was that no one had hired them. But an unasked question comes to mind–Where were they that morning, or at the third hour, the sixth hour, and the ninth hour?

Sometimes idling results from missed opportunities. I can recognize a few missed opportunities in my life. Being hesitant to make a decision or making the wrong decision can produce a time of being idle.  Thankfully, God is gracious and merciful and frequently comes back around with another opportunity.

It is evident these laborers were willing to work–they did the job when they finally got to the field. But it seems they lacked a bit of initiative. Their idleness can be contrasted with Ruth’s productivity. Ruth did not wait for an invitation to go work. She knew there was a job that had to be done and she went out and found a way to do it. God blessed her effort.

Sometimes idling is the result of indecision, lack of initiative, or poor decisions. Learn from these mistakes and get involved. Don’t just stand there, do something!