May 8, 2024
Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; He shall not stand before mean men.
Prov 22:29 KJV
In our previous reading, we explored blessing through praise. Today, let's delve deeper into how we can unlock our full potential through the power of diligence. The journey towards excellence is a progression, starting with honing our skills and committing ourselves diligently to the work at hand.
Diligence, as defined by the Webster dictionary, entails being steady, earnest, and devoted to a cause, as well as the ability to apply energetic, concerted effort to achieve it.
To grasp the significance of diligence in our lives, let's rewind to the beginning, where Adam was placed in the Garden of Eden. Tending to a garden demands both skill and diligence to maintain its splendor. Anyone who has tended a garden knows that the fruits and flowers, though they may seem abundant, require hours, days, weeks, or even years of dedicated diligence to flourish.
The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. Gen 2:15 NIV
While Adam diligently tended to the task God had assigned him, the Lord provided him with a helper, Eve. At times, as we diligently labor in our own gardens—whether at work or in other endeavors—we may be tempted to abandon our efforts prematurely, seeking fruit elsewhere. In moments of apparent stagnation, when it seems that our toil bears no fruit, it's crucial not to lose heart. In due time, we shall reap the rewards of our diligence.
One aspect of diligence, as previously mentioned, is steadfastness, which we observe in the life of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1:12a: 'And it happened, as she continued praying before the Lord, that Eli watched her mouth.' Despite the ridicule she faced from Peninnah, her rival, as described in verses 6-7 of the same text, Hannah persevered in prayer year after year. Her unwavering commitment exemplifies diligence in the place of prayer. Diligence, Hannah's story teaches us, doesn't always yield immediate rewards. Yet, by persisting, your light will eventually shine before all.
Another illustration can be found in Genesis 26:15-22, where Isaac dug wells. Despite facing opposition from the Philistines and their herdsmen, who resisted his attempts to claim the fruits of his labor, Isaac persisted diligently. His determination eventually led him to Rehoboth, the place of rest.
Today, we are called to maintain diligence in every sphere of our lives—be it in the workplace, in business, in prayer, in worship, in service to God, or in giving. Whatever your hands find to do, do it skillfully and diligently.
Song of Worship
I've got my mind made up and I won't turn back Because I want to see my Jesus someday I've got my mind made up and I won't turn back Because I want to see my Jesus someday.
Song by Donnie McClurkin
Prayer - Lord, grant me the virtue of diligence—a steadfast resolve to pursue my goals with unwavering commitment and focus. Help me approach each task with diligence, not out of fear, but out of a deep sense of purpose, knowing that my efforts are meaningful. In moments of weariness and doubt, renew my spirit, strengthen my resolve, and may my efforts bring glory to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Bible in 1 year: 2 Kings 7-9