Lessons Learned on a Field Trip

A pastor reflects on the wisdom gained from observing a neglected field and vineyard.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Growing up in Arkansas, the author recalls how field trips were among his favorite school activities. He draws lessons from a biblical account of a field trip taken by King Solomon, who observed a neglected field and vineyard and used the experience to teach about the importance of hard work, building one's life on principles rather than foolishness, and continually learning from both the successes and mistakes of others.

Why it matters

The author's reflections on Solomon's field trip highlight timeless principles about the value of diligence, wisdom, and lifelong learning that are relevant to readers today, especially in an era where many struggle with issues like poverty, complacency, and regret over missed opportunities.

The details

In the biblical passage from Proverbs 24, Solomon visits the field and vineyard of a sluggard, or lazy person, and observes that they have fallen into disrepair, with thorns and nettles covering the ground and the stone wall broken down. Solomon uses this as an object lesson, noting that poverty comes to those who fold their hands and slumber, rather than applying themselves to productive work.

  • In the biblical account, Solomon takes this field trip at an unspecified time.
  • The author first heard a related poem over 40 years ago.

The players

Solomon

The wise king of Israel who is said to have taken this field trip and used it to teach important life lessons.

The Sluggard

The lazy, unwise person whose neglected field and vineyard served as the object lesson for Solomon's teachings.

Randy Zinn

The pastor of Russell Missionary Baptist Church in Russell, Arkansas, who is reflecting on the lessons he has learned from Solomon's field trip and a related poem.

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What they’re saying

“I looked upon my soul one day, to find it too had grown, with thorns and nettles everywhere, the seeds neglect had sown. The years had passed while I had cared for things of lesser worth: the things of Heaven I let go while minding things of Earth.”

— Theodore Brennan (Poem)

The takeaway

This story highlights the timeless wisdom found in observing the mistakes and failures of others, and using those lessons to avoid similar pitfalls in one's own life. It encourages readers to prioritize diligence, learning, and building their lives on eternal principles rather than temporary pleasures or complacency.