Discover How to Maximize Your Potential in 2026 and Avoid Common Pitfalls.

Christian Treasure Devotion

Scriptural Reference: PROVERBS 24:33-34 (NIV)

“ A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—

leads to poverty arriving like a thief and scarcity like an armed man."

Welcome! May you be productive. In Jesus' name, amen.

Recently, I watched a news story about a man who shared how well-armed criminals invaded his community in an African country, stealing many valuables from people's homes and even kidnapping a newlywed couple just days after their marriage. In his narration, he used the local term “bandits” to describe these violent criminals, who are known for robbing people in isolated areas while armed.

Though our focus is not on the story itself, it serves to illustrate what our scriptural reference says about poverty striking like bandits.

Our reference scriptures warn us to be vigilant so that we are not robbed or overwhelmed by poverty. Poverty can steal joy, peace, and happiness, leaving one looking foolish for surrendering valuable possessions to it. Today, we are urged by Proverbs 6:11 to recognize the dangers of poverty.

In this context, "sleep" symbolizes being inactive or complacent rather than physical rest. Let’s explore the kinds of "sleep" we should be cautious of.

WAYS POVERTY CAN COME AS A BANDIT

1. Lackadaisical Attitude: When you fail to take timely action on important tasks, it can lead to poverty. Being too relaxed about urgent matters can result in lost opportunities.

2. Procrastination: This is a thief that steals future and potential. When an idea comes to you, putting it off instead of acting on it can lead to missed chances.

3. Lack of Proactivity: It’s crucial to take steps to address issues that may lead you into difficulties. I once shared a story about a man who went to ask a wealthy individual for help. During a lunch invitation, another person arrived asking for the same assistance. The wealthy man, upon seeing the urgency in the second person's request, decided to help him instead because the first man had not clearly expressed his need. The lesson is that failing to take initiative can lead to lost opportunities.

4. Lost Opportunities: Some once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, once missed, may never return. For example, if you are a freelancer who knows you need to be online at a certain time but instead chooses to chat with friends, you risk missing out on important clients. If a client discovers another freelancer, you may never get that opportunity again.

5. Literal Sleep as a Bandit: If you work remotely or as a blogger and most of your clients are in different time zones, you need to adapt your schedule accordingly. Falling asleep when you should be available for meetings can cost you significant business.

6. Waiting for the Perfect Time: There is rarely a perfect time to invest in new skills or opportunities; waiting can lead you to fall behind, especially in the rapidly evolving world of AI. For instance, if you want to purchase property and have the means, do it without delay. Tax policies can change, making properties more expensive over time. Reject the mindset of "let me wait and see" this year.

Assignments: Make a firm decision this New Year to maximize your potential and promote personal growth.