A life that avoids all effort also bypasses all opportunity.
In “Where no oxen are, the manger is clean, but much revenue comes by the strength of the ox” (v.4), we discover a proverb that contrasts the simplicity of having no animals to care for with the greater advantages reaped by those who invest time and effort. An empty manger requires no labor; there is no feed to purchase, no messes to clean, and no maintenance needed. However, this diminished responsibility also yields no productivity. The verse teaches that while cutting corners or avoiding effort can keep circumstances neat and uncomplicated on the surface, it simultaneously prevents growth and prosperity that come through diligence and industry.
This principle can be linked to the broader biblical theme of work and stewardship. Like the dynamic of sowing and reaping found throughout Scripture, this proverb underscores that investment and diligent labor yield returns. Just as the Gospels speak of the harvest being plentiful but the laborers being few (Luke 10:2), Proverbs 14:4 suggests that if we avoid the labor, we may spare ourselves temporary burdens but will miss out on the fruit it can produce. When applied to everyday life, it reminds us that becoming overly cautious or averse to risk can hamper future blessings.
Moreover, this verse aligns with the biblical encouragement to apply wisdom in practical matters. In a sense, “Where no oxen are, the manger is clean” (v.4) reminds us that a life free from real responsibility may remain serene on the surface, but “much revenue comes by the strength of the ox” (v.4) signifies the reward that comes through embracing challenges. The proverb invites readers to be willing to encounter some inconvenience or difficulty for the sake of the greater gains God intends to provide.
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Proverbs 14:4 meaning
In “Where no oxen are, the manger is clean, but much revenue comes by the strength of the ox” (v.4), we discover a proverb that contrasts the simplicity of having no animals to care for with the greater advantages reaped by those who invest time and effort. An empty manger requires no labor; there is no feed to purchase, no messes to clean, and no maintenance needed. However, this diminished responsibility also yields no productivity. The verse teaches that while cutting corners or avoiding effort can keep circumstances neat and uncomplicated on the surface, it simultaneously prevents growth and prosperity that come through diligence and industry.
This principle can be linked to the broader biblical theme of work and stewardship. Like the dynamic of sowing and reaping found throughout Scripture, this proverb underscores that investment and diligent labor yield returns. Just as the Gospels speak of the harvest being plentiful but the laborers being few (Luke 10:2), Proverbs 14:4 suggests that if we avoid the labor, we may spare ourselves temporary burdens but will miss out on the fruit it can produce. When applied to everyday life, it reminds us that becoming overly cautious or averse to risk can hamper future blessings.
Moreover, this verse aligns with the biblical encouragement to apply wisdom in practical matters. In a sense, “Where no oxen are, the manger is clean” (v.4) reminds us that a life free from real responsibility may remain serene on the surface, but “much revenue comes by the strength of the ox” (v.4) signifies the reward that comes through embracing challenges. The proverb invites readers to be willing to encounter some inconvenience or difficulty for the sake of the greater gains God intends to provide.