After Solomon’s observation and consideration, he gives a diagnosis as to how this tragic picture came to pass. The desire for a little rest and relaxation, became an obsession, and eventually led to poverty. Now, there is nothing wrong with rest; as a matter of fact, we can’t function properly without it. God, in his wisdom and mercy, created us in such a way that we must sleep. However, God in His wisdom and mercy also created us in such a way that we must work and exert energy as well. Too much sleep or too much work will have destructive consequences. The principle that we must be aware of here is that too much of a good thing is probably idolatry, and idolatry enslaves and destroys our lives. Notice the way Solomon phrases the sluggard’s thoughts, a little sleep, a little slumber. This man was not always slothful; he slowly became overtaken by his love for slothfulness. Oh, what a reminder to us of the sneaky and powerful nature of sin. Satan is never satisfied with a foothold; his goal is to destroy our entire lives. May we flee for refuge through faith and obedience in the arms of Christ.