Proverbs 12:27 - Diligence

Scripture

Proverbs 12:27  a lazy man does not roast his prey, but the precious possession of a man is diligence.

Observation

The word diligence means to make constant and earnest effort to accomplish what is undertaken (Dictionary.com). But what makes diligence so precious?

One, diligence is needed in order to keep unity in your marriage, family, and body of Christ. Ephesians 4:3 say's to be diligent in keeping the unity of the Spirit and the bond of peace. This is one possession missing from many worldly relationships. We get mad...we leave. But diligence keeps us seeking unity and peace in those relationships.

Two, diligence is necessary in growing in the knowledge and wisdom of Christ. Proverbs 13:4 say's that the soul of the diligent is made fat.  We may not welcome a fat hind end, but surely a soul made fat on the very words of God are OK.

Three, diligence makes wealth. Proverbs 10:4 say's that the hands of the diligent make one rich. I believe this is because the diligent are continuously paying off debt or staying out of debt and they are getting up for work every day, diligently giving their best at their job. Moreover, they are earnestly seeking to please God with every dime they spend or give.

Four, the plans of the diligent lead to advantage (Proverbs 21:5). This is a great promise for those who stay the course assigned.  Philippians 3:13-14 say's but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead.  I press on toward the goal of the prize of the upward call in Christ Jesus. Diligence is an act of faith. Diligence presses on, even when you don't feel like it and even when you don't see the fruit of your labor.

Application

God is calling me to be diligent in my finances, diligent in my health, diligent in exercising the gifts and talents He has given me, diligent in preserving peaceful relationships, diligent in prayer, praise, and thankfulness, and diligent in seeking Him  in every portion of my day. In some of these areas I have seen lots of fruit due to diligence and others that I have yet to see any.  But I hold on to Proverbs 21:5 that no matter what, these toils are not in vain for they will surely lead to advantage. Praise God for growing my faith each day through the self-discipline provided by His Holy Spirit.

Prayer

Father, indeed Your gift of diligence is a precious possession. I thank You for the application of Your scripture in my life. Please keep me steadfast in seeking You and walking in Your ways. Help me not to be discouraged when I don't see fruit from diligent labor, but to praise You for the faith that You are building in me.  I need more of You this day and everyday, fatten my soul with Your presence.