What does Proverbs 14:4 mean?

Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox. — Proverbs 14:4 KJV

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Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox come abundant harvests. — Proverbs 14:4 NIV

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Today's Verse Reflection

This is all embracing the challenges of life as a part of the growth process. Remember that a life of faith is not one of comfort and ease but rather one of fruitful labor and perseverance. It’s a reminder to balance our desire for a peaceful, orderly life with the need to engage actively in the work God has called us to do while accepting the challenges that come with it.

My Prayer

Heavenly Father, in the moments where the manger is clean and my life seems unburdened, remind me not to become complacent. Stir in me a desire to engage in the work You have for me, knowing that true abundance in life comes through serving You and others. Give me the wisdom to balance order and productivity, understanding that both have a place in my spiritual journey.

I pray for perseverance when the work is challenging and for humility to accept the necessary mess that comes with meaningful labor. Guide me in using my talents and strengths in a way that honors You and furthers Your kingdom. Let my efforts, like the strength of the ox, lead to abundant crops in every aspect of my life – in my faith, my relationships, my community, and my work.

Thank You, Father, for the lessons we learn through Your creation and Your Word. Help me to apply this wisdom daily as I strive to live a life that is pleasing to You, full of purpose and productivity.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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    Alona Smith writes like she sketches—quick strokes, bold colors, no eraser. She ran a small-town art studio before VerseForTheDay invited her to swap charcoal for chapters, yet paint still flecks her keyboard. Dawn finds her barefoot on the porch, swirling watercolors across a travel Bible, letting sunrise seep into the margins. Neighbors wave as she bikes to the farmers’ market, basket rattling with sunflowers and Psalms scribbled on kraft-paper price tags.Alona trusts that Scripture behaves like clay: press your palms in, and a vessel appears where empty air once lived. Afternoon workshops with foster teens prove the point; they mold hope into coffee mugs, then watch steam carry it forward.Diplomas? Only framed sketches of hands lifted in worship. Awards? A dog-eared gratitude list taped to her fridge. Open her reflections when cynicism scratches—she’ll slide a brush into your grip and show you light hiding in the smear of everyday color.