Sloth noun \sloth\

sloth noun \ˈslȯth\

the quality or state of being lazy

not wanting to act or work

the spiritual apathy or laziness that slowly lets go of Christ and His gracious gifts

synonyms

apathy

idleness

indolence

laziness

antonyms

ambition

diligence

motivation

zeal

Holy Scripture

The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor. [Proverbs 12:24]

Slothfulness casts into a deep sleep, and an idle person will suffer hunger. [Proverbs 19:15]

Through sloth the roof sinks in, and through indolence the house leaks. [Ecclesiastes 10:18]

Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. [Romans 12:11]

And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. [1 Thessalonians 5:14]

We command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. [2 Thessalonians 3:6]

The grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to … live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession who are zealous for good works. [Titus 2:11-14]

Prayer

Almighty God, send Your Holy Spirit into our hearts that He may rule and direct us according to Your will, keep us from the sins of sloth and idleness, defend us from all error, and lead us into all truth that we, being steadfast in faith, may increase in all good works and in the end obtain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. [Lutheran Service Book, #183 For the Holy Spirit, adapted]