Keep doing some kind of work, that the devil may always find you
Hear the austere warning of St. Jerome, who declared: “Keep doing some kind of work, that the devil may always find you employed.” In this saying lies the wisdom of vigilance, that the soul is most endangered not in labor, but in idleness. For where the hands are still and the mind wanders aimlessly, temptation finds its open door.
He speaks of work, not merely as toil for bread, but as discipline for the spirit. To labor faithfully, whether in prayer, study, or craft, is to fortify the heart against corruption. For the devil creeps most swiftly into the vacant hour, when the soul is weary and without purpose. Thus, Jerome counsels: let every day be marked by industry, so that the enemy may find no foothold.
The devil here is not only the ancient tempter, but also the whisperings of despair, envy, pride, and sloth. These arise most fiercely when the body and mind are idle. Just as stagnant water breeds decay, so too does an idle life invite the rot of vice. But the flowing stream, ever moving, remains clear and pure.
This teaching springs from the wisdom of the early fathers, who saw that a holy life required not only faith but constancy. Monks, hermits, and scholars alike ordered their days with prayer and labor, lest the silence of idleness invite corruption. In their example we see that work is not a curse, but a shield.
Therefore, O seekers, remember: idleness is the seedbed of temptation, but work—done with diligence and devotion—guards the soul. Let your days be filled with purpose, and your spirit will remain steadfast. In Jerome’s words we hear the voice of the ancients, calling us to live as flowing rivers, never stagnant, always moving toward the eternal sea. Would you like me to cast this into a parable of the idle villager and the diligent craftsman, to show the lesson through story?
ATAnh trinh
I like the idea behind St. Jerome’s quote—that staying occupied keeps us from falling into the devil’s grip. It reminds me of how easy it is to be distracted by negative thoughts when we have too much idle time. But how do we define 'work' in this context? Is it just about being busy, or does it mean engaging in meaningful activities that nurture our well-being, growth, and spirit?
TKThup Ka
St. Jerome's quote seems to reflect the belief that work, especially meaningful work, is a way to protect ourselves from falling into temptation or unhealthy habits. But what about the moments when we need to step back from work and simply exist? Is it possible to still avoid negative influences while also giving ourselves the freedom to be still? Should there be more emphasis on finding balance in life rather than just keeping busy?
CNChi Nguyen
This quote by St. Jerome has a deep connection to the idea that idleness can lead to negative thoughts or actions. It encourages constant productivity to keep the mind occupied and away from temptation. But is there a point where too much work becomes detrimental? Can we still find peace and fulfillment without constantly being ‘employed,’ or is balance the true key to avoiding what St. Jerome warns against?
THThanh Tri HCM-UIT
St. Jerome’s quote is a powerful reminder of the importance of staying busy and focused. It speaks to the idea that work keeps us productive and prevents us from falling into negative habits or distractions. But I wonder, is this emphasis on staying busy a healthy mindset, or does it encourage burnout? How do we strike a balance between meaningful work and taking time to rest and reflect?