Proverbs 6:9-11

Solomon emphasises that we must not be lazy. When it is time to work, we must not sleep. In verse 9, Solomon asks the sleeper how long he will sleep. In verse 10, we hear what the sleeper thinks. He does not want to get up. However, he must wake. It is time to work. It is as if a thief is at the door. The sleeper must act quickly. Otherwise, he is in great trouble. He might lose everything.

1 Thessalonians 5 discusses this idea. However, the situation in 1 Thessalonians is different. The Bible says that, one day, Jesus will return to this world. That day will come suddenly, like the arrival of a thief. Some people will not be ready. ‘We must not sleep. We must stay awake. We must be ready. Sleepers sleep at night. Drunks drink alcohol at night. But we belong to the day.’ (1 Thessalonians 5:6-8).

v12 Look out for the evil man! Look out for the thief!

His mouth is speaking false words.

v13 Look out for his signals!

He shuts his eyes. He moves his feet. He taps his fingers.

v14 He is plotting evil plans in his heart.

He starts arguments.

v15 His punishment will be sudden.

There will be no remedy for him.