Definition: Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 24:27: “Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.” Here’s a simple explanation: Basically, it's about being proactive and working hard to achieve your goals. Let’s unpack each part: “Prepare thy work without…” : This means don’t just wait for things to happen . It’s about taking action now. Don’t procrastinate or be passive. Start putting in the effort, even if it feels small at first. It's like planting a seed – you need to nurture it to grow. “…and make it fit for thyself in the field…” : This is where it gets really important. “Fit” means ready , proper , and complete . It’s about making something that will work well, be useful, and be strong. “In the field” represents your life or your goals – whatever you're working towards. You need to dedicate yourself fully to it. “…and afterwards build thine house.” : This is the payoff! After you’ve prepared and worked hard, then you can focus on building something lasting and secure. Your house represents your life, your future, or whatever you're striving for. It needs a solid foundation – that’s what you’ve built with your work. In short, the verse encourages us to: Take action: Don't just dream about it; do something! Be diligent: Work hard and consistently. Focus on preparation: Don't rush into things without a plan or groundwork. Prioritize long-term goals: Build something lasting that will benefit you in the future. It’s a message about responsibility, dedication, and building a solid foundation for success. --- Do you want me to elaborate on any of these points? For example, would you like to know: Why is it important to be proactive? What does "fit" mean in this context?