What is the optimum level of business? The scriptures indicate that the Lord has definite interest in our level of activity. While idleness is evil in its own right ("Thou shalt not be idle"; “see that ye refrain from idleness”), regardless of whether there is work unfinished, the condemnation of idleness is even more severe if duties are neglected as a result of the idleness (1 Timothy 5:8).
On the other hand, excessive business in one area can lead us to neglect important opportunities in other areas. The classic example is Martha and Mary, where Martha’s industrious service is gently chastised (Luke 10:40-42); and Mary’s attention to one thing (listening to the Savior) is praised. The scriptures urge diligence, but they also warn us to avoid being cumbered (D&C 66:10) by things bad (parable of the sower), good (Martha’s serving), or neutral (riches).
In addition, over zealousness for the right cause is met with gentle rebuke (Mosiah 4:27; 9:3; D&C 11:15, 26-27); though the condemnation for being lukewarm is admittedly much harsher (Revelation 3:16; Matt. 25:24-30; 2 Ne. 28:24-25). It is important to find your pace, and be diligent until the results are achieved, or the race is ended. The punishment for the feeble-kneed and little-faithed is much gentler and short-lived than for the one who does not endure to the end (2 Ne. 31:16).
It is important to note that God places importance on some tasks that the world would label idleness or neglect. When Jesus lingered in the temple to teach the doctors, he met his mother’s rebuke with the calm explanation that his tardiness was so that he might be about his Father’s business. Similarly, the Savior instructed early missionaries to not provide purse or scrip for themselves. Being on the Lord’s business entitled them to the privileges enjoyed by the grass of the field (which has its clothing provided by God; see Matt. 6:30-34). Elsewhere, he positively commands, “Be still.” (D&C 101:16)
But being still spiritually does not mean relying on God to do the things we are meant to do ourselves. For example, the Lord chastised Oliver Cowdery for taking no thought about the revelation he asked God for (D&C 9:7). Similarly, he chastened the Jaredites for forgetting to pray and the Nephites for failing to record important events (Ether 2:14; 3 Ne. 23:11).
But being still spiritually does not mean relying on God to do the things we are meant to do ourselves. For example, the Lord chastised Oliver Cowdery for taking no thought about the revelation he asked God for (D&C 9:7). Similarly, he chastened the Jaredites for forgetting to pray and the Nephites for failing to record important events (Ether 2:14; 3 Ne. 23:11).
What is the key? Being ever open to and turned towards God, and his revelations. Jacob summarizes: “to be learned [or busy] is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God.” (2 Ne. 9:29). To those who busy themselves with anything else, heavy punishment lies in store. (See v. 28; 30; 39; 42)
I pray that when the Lord needs me, he will not find me a rich, busy person with no time for Him; but rather a poor, maimed man who will heed his summons to come and feast on His goodness (Luke 14:15-24; Hymn 270).
