¹⁵ Be very careful, then, how you live^(A)—not as unwise but as wise, ¹⁶ making the most of every opportunity,^(B) because the days are evil.^(C)

¹¹ and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands,^(A) just as we told you, ¹² so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders^(B) and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

Warning Against Idleness

⁶ In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ,^(A) we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from^(B) every believer who is idle and disruptive^(C) and does not live according to the teaching^[a] you received from us.^{(D) 7} For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example.^(E) We were not idle when we were with you, ⁸ nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked^(F) night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. ⁹ We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help,^(G) but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate.^{(H) 10} For even when we were with you,^(I) we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work^(J) shall not eat.”

¹¹ We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies.^{(K) 12} Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ^(L) to settle down and earn the food they eat.^{(M) 13} And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.^(N)

¹⁴ Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them,^(O) in order that they may feel ashamed.^{(P) 15} Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.^(Q)