DCLM Higher Everyday 21 July 2026 — Poverty And Sleep
Topic: Poverty And Sleep
Bible Reading: Proverbs 20:13-15 (KJV)
13Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.
14It is naught, it is naught, saith the buyer: but when he is gone his way, then he boasteth.
15There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
KEY VERSE: Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread” (Proverbs 20:13).
Message
Sleep is essential for good health, but too much of it can indicate laziness and lead to poverty and failure. The Bible warns, “Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man” (Proverbs 6:10-11). Experts recommend 8-10 hours of sleep per night for a healthy life. However, excessive sleep under the guise of rest leads to negligence of responsibilities and hinders progress. Success requires self-discipline, consistent effort, and the willingness to wake up and work hard daily. Whether studying for a major exam, developing a skill, or completing a task, it is discipline, determination, and diligence that can see you through.
While rest is important, excessive sleep should not replace hard work and commitment. Youths must strive for a balance, getting enough rest to stay healthy while dedicating time to productive activities daily. By staying disciplined and focused, you can work to achieve your goals and secure a brighter future. Create time also for fellowship with God and the brethren.
PRAYER FOR TODAY
Oh God, deliver me from laziness in Jesus’ name.
CHALLENGE
Too much sleep is a pathway to poverty.
1. Admit that you are a sinner. "For all [humans] have sinned, and comes short of the glory of God....[and] the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 3:23)
2. Repent now. "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out ...[for] if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness " (Acts 3:19, 1 John 1:9)
3. Believe that God loves you and Jesus died for you. "God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet Sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8)
4. Invite Jesus into your life through prayer of faith. Jesus says, "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me" (Revelation 3:20)
