Procrastination is a common problem that feels like a trap. You fall into the rabbit hole, and it seems impossible to get out. But if you're a master procrastinator, I feel you. And I'm here to tell you, there's hope for us. If I can get out of the slump, you can too! I've compiled 15 Bible verses and five tips for overcoming procrastination if you need inspiration and guidance in completing your to-do list.

 

Understanding Procrastination

What is Procrastination?

Procrastination is delaying or postponing tasks or actions that need to be done. It is an everyday problem affecting the young and old, leading to stress, anxiety, and missed opportunities. In the Bible, Proverbs 20:4 compares procrastination to a plow that is left idle, which leads to poverty.

Why Do We Procrastinate?

There are various reasons why people procrastinate. I procrastinate when I have tasks that seem too overwhelming or complicated. I know it's crazy to delay the inevitable, but that's my fight-or-flight reaction to a stressful assignment. Sometimes, it is due to fear of failure or the unknown. However, procrastination can also be caused by laziness or a lack of discipline.

The Consequences of Procrastination

Procrastination can have negative consequences, both in the short and in the long term. For example, if we procrastinate, opportunities may pass us, and we'd fail to achieve our goals. 

Proverbs 10:4 states that lazy hands make for poverty.

Procrastination can lead to stress and anxiety. We may feel overwhelmed and anxious when we delay tasks until the last minute or fail to complete them. Fear and delay can be paralyzing. Thus, we dillydally before accomplishing our tasks.

15 Bible Verses About Overcoming Procrastination

What does the Bible say about procrastination? No specific Bible verses directly mention the word "procrastination," as it is a more modern concept. But the Bible does contain several verses that touch on the themes of diligence, productivity, and the responsible use of time. Here are 15 Bible verses that can be applied to the issue of procrastination:

1. Proverbs 6:9-11: How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.
2. Ecclesiastes 9:10: Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.
3. Colossians 3:23: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.
4. Proverbs 13:4: The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.
5. Proverbs 14:23: All hard work brings profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.
6. Ephesians 5:15-17: Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.
7. Proverbs 10:4: Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.
8. Proverbs 15:19: The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway.
9. Proverbs 18:9: One who slacks in his work is brother to one who destroys.
10. Proverbs 19:15: Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless go hungry.
11. Proverbs 20:4: Sluggards do not plow in season; so they look but find nothing at harvest.
12. Proverbs 21:25: The craving of a sluggard will be his death because his hands refuse to work.
13. Proverbs 24:32-34: I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.
14. Hebrews 12:11: No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those trained.
15. Ecclesiastes 10:18: Through laziness, the rafters sag; because of idle hands, the house leaks. 

Overcoming Procrastination

Procrastination can have severe consequences if you don't do something about it. To overcome the problem, you must first identify the root cause of procrastination.

Identifying the Root Cause of Procrastination

Procrastination can be due to laziness, poor time management, fear of failure, and lack of motivation. By identifying the root cause of procrastination, it becomes easier to find a solution.

5 Practical Steps to Overcome Procrastination

Overcoming procrastination could be challenging. But planning and creating a few actionable steps will help you stop putting off things and get things done soon.

1. Set Clear and Specific Goals: Clearly define and break your plans into smaller, manageable tasks. Specific objectives provide focus and make it easier to take action.
2. Prioritize and Create a Schedule: Determine and prioritize the most essential tasks. Then, develop a schedule or to-do list, allocating specific time slots for each job. Finally, stick to the plan to maintain momentum.
3. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Large tasks can feel overwhelming, leading to procrastination. Break them down into smaller, more doable steps. Focusing on completing one step will make you feel a sense of progress and be more motivated to continue.
4. Utilize Time Management Techniques: Explore different time management techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique (working in short bursts with frequent breaks) or time blocking (allocating specific periods for various tasks). Find what works best for you and helps you stay focused and productive.
5. Address Procrastination Triggers: Identify the factors that contribute to your procrastination. It could be distractions, perfectionism, fear of failure, or lack of motivation. Once you recognize these triggers, develop strategies to minimize their impact. This might involve creating a conducive work environment, setting realistic expectations, seeking accountability from others, or finding ways to boost motivation.

Remember, overcoming procrastination is a gradual process. It requires self-awareness, discipline, and perseverance. However, by implementing these steps consistently, you can develop healthier habits and become more productive in tackling tasks and achieving your goals.

You can also try these 7 steps from Dr. Kevin Jubbal of Med School Insiders.

Time To Act

From warnings about working diligently, grabbing opportunities, and startling reminders of how the lazy will suffer, the Bible is a powerful tool for overcoming the temptation to put things off. I don't know about you, but don't plan to starve. 

Another helpful insight is the reminder that procrastination can be a form of self-sabotage, as it undermines our efforts to achieve our goals and fulfill our responsibilities. 

We are called to be industrious and faithful stewards of the resources and opportunities God has given us, and procrastination can hinder us from fulfilling that calling.

Ultimately, the key to overcoming procrastination is to focus on the present moment, seek God's guidance and strength, and take action in faith and obedience. 

Then, by relying on the wisdom and encouragement of the Bible, we can overcome the temptation to procrastinate and live more productive, fulfilling lives. And let's remember that if we know what we should and shouldn't do, it is a sin (James 4:17).

How about you? How often do you procrastinate, and what do you do to overcome it?