Why Diligence Matters WISDOM FROM PROVERBS RECOGNIZING DILIGENCE DISPLAYING DILIGENCE DILIGENCE IN SERVING GOD PERSONAL REFLECTION

Why Diligence Matters WISDOM FROM PROVERBS RECOGNIZING DILIGENCE DISPLAYING DILIGENCE DILIGENCE IN SERVING GOD PERSONAL REFLECTION

"Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper." (Proverbs 13:4, NLT) Wherever we go, we quickly discover that people do not all approach life with the same attitude or level of commitment. In school, there is often a student who does not turn in assignments or contribute to class projects, attending only because it is required. In the workplace, some people do just enough to avoid being fired. On committees, some members work with determination, while others want the recognition without putting in the effort. I've worked with people like this, and you probably have as well. Hopefully, none of us has ever been viewed as a slacker in the group. What does a diligent person look like? They aren't hard to recognize. These are the ones who: Show up on time ready to start. Work steadily and carefully. Pay attention to details. Aren't afraid to get their hands dirty. Persevere even when facing setbacks. Get the job done. Aren't there for the accolades. The diligent person gives every job — big or small — his best effort, using whatever abilities he may possess. He is never slipshod but always strives for excellence. While the sluggard may be talented, if he isn't using those abilities in a steady, careful way, what will he accomplish? James 4:17 admonishes us, "Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin" (NKJV). The Bible gives us numerous examples of men and women who showed diligence in all they did. There is not time to tell the many stories of determined and faithful men and women, but here are just a few. Noah and his sons worked steadily and persistently decade after decade to build an ark. Noah could have grown discouraged and quit, but he didn't. Genesis 6:22 says that he did all that God commanded him. He was diligent. King Hezekiah is described in II Chronicles 31:21 as doing everything "with all his heart." Then it adds, "So he prospered." He gave his best in whatever he undertook for the Lord. That's diligence! Nehemiah and the people of Jerusalem worked diligently to rebuild the walls of the city while also defending themselves from their enemies. Nehemiah 4:6 tells us that the people "had a mind to work." They accomplish what seemed an almost insurmountable task with diligence. Paul, the apostle, speaks of his "labor and travail" while "laboring night and day" (I Thessalonians 2:9). This determination in the face of hardship shows diligence. Onesiphorus had ministered to Paul in Ephesus and also diligently sought him out in Rome. He was a faithful fellow believer and friend. Paul, himself a diligent man, commended Onesiphorus for not being ashamed of Paul's chains (II Timothy 1:16-18). That same diligence and determination we display in other areas of our lives is also needed in our spiritual walk. Romans 12:11 reminds us to "never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically" (NLT). Being diligent in small things is just as important as being diligent in major areas of our lives. In fact, how we handle the small things reveals our true character. "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?" (Luke 16:10-11, NKJV). Our goal as a child of God is to hear Him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:23). 1. What qualities do you think God expects in our lives if we are diligent in our walk with Him? 2. What are some of the blessings of diligence? Devotion by Mary Loudermilk

The Words We Speak Wisdom from Proverbs GENTLE WORDS THINK, THEN SPEAK

"A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit." (Proverbs 15:4, ESV) A familiar children's rhyme declares, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." It sounds good, but unfortunately this little rhyme is not true. Yes, sticks and stones can injure us, but so can words. What we say may not leave visible scars, but our words do have the ability to injure another's spirit. Proverbs 12:18 says words can pierce like a sword. They can cut deep. Perhaps it is because of the power words hold that we find so many verses in the Bible on the importance of how we speak. Acts 18:24-28 briefly tells the story of a man named Apollos. Verse 24 describes him as "an eloquent man and mighty in the scriptures." We first meet Apollos as he was speaking and teaching boldly in the synagogue. Although he was very passionate about what he taught, there were things he did not yet understand. He only knew the baptism of John and apparently did not know about Jesus. Two of those listening as Apollos spoke were Aquila and Priscilla, friends and coworkers of Paul. Realizing that Apollos did not know the full gospel story, they wisely took him aside and "expounded to him the way of God more perfectly." What if Aquila and Priscilla had openly criticized or challenged Apollos instead of quietly and lovingly teaching him about the Lord? Their kind, gentle, and respectful words gained a brother, not an adversary. Because of the wise way they spoke to him and instructed him, Apollos became a valuable coworker in the gospel. He became a powerful witness, especially to the Jews. He now understood and taught "by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ" (verse 28). Proverbs 16:23-24 tells us that "From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive. Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body" (NLT). This verse perfectly describes the way Aquila and Priscilla reached out to Apollos. Because of it, they gained a brother and coworker in the Lord. Proverbs 18:21 cautions us that, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." We may not intend to kill someone with our words, but the careless things we say can kill their spirit, their self-confidence, their ambition, or their hope. Our words have power so we must choose them well. The Lord desires that we speak words that will bring health and wholeness to others. It's so easy for us to speak first and then realize our words were too sharp, critical, or unkind. We may hurt others without intending to cause harm, but the words have already been spoken. They have been heard, and now we are wondering how to fix this. How much wiser and better to first consider the impact they will have. Are they kind? Encouraging? Christ-like? Will they build up or tear down? Inspire or discourage? Compliment or belittle? It has been said that an arrow once shot cannot be returned. I believe it is also true that words once spoken cannot be unheard. That is why we must always consider the impact of our words before we speak. Let this verse be our prayer today: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. (Psalm 19:14) Devotion by Mary Loudermilk

The Principal Thing Wisdom from Proverbs GOD'S GIFT A FATHER'S INSTRUCTIONS personal reflection

At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, "Ask! What shall I give you?" . . . "Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?" . . . "Behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you." (I King 3:5, 9, and 12, NKJV) King Solomon was wise — according to the Bible the wisest man who ever lived. How did he gain his wisdom? Is it possible that we can learn from the words he left behind in the Book of Proverbs? Solomon was the son of David and Bathsheba. When Solomon ascended to the throne of Israel, he was young and inexperienced. He realized his responsibilities would be heavy and that he had much to learn. Then God came to him in a dream and said to ask for whatever he wanted. Solomon chose wisely. He did not ask for riches or things others might seek. Instead, his greatest desire was to possess wisdom and understanding to lead his people well. God gifted him with a wise and understanding heart. Wisdom is a gift from God, and it is available for each of us. James 1:5 tells us He gives it liberally — generously, freely, abundantly — and without criticism or disapproval. All we have to do is ask. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." (NKJV) According to James 3:15-18, there are two types of wisdom: earthly (worldly) wisdom and the wisdom that comes from above. Earthly wisdom is rooted in envy, selfish ambition, confusion, and other evil practices. It is unspiritual and demonic. It is self-centered and driven by human desires. Heavenly wisdom is pure, peace-loving, gentle, submissive, compassionate, full of good fruit, without partiality, and free of hypocrisy. It gives us insight on how God wants us to live and connect with others. While Solomon was still young, his father took time to teach him the importance and the blessing of wisdom. That teaching provided a foundation that he could build his life upon. In Proverbs 4:1-13 Solomon shares some of his father's instructions on the blessings that come from seeking wisdom. Those same lessons still apply today and will lead us into a more fulfilling and God-honoring life. It will preserve and keep us. It will bring promotion and honor. It will become an ornament of grace and crown of glory. It will keep us from limping or stumbling. It will give us a good life. "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom . . ." (Proverbs 4:7, NKJV) How will heavenly wisdom help you in your daily life? Is there a situation in your life now that requires wisdom? Have you prayed for the wisdom and understanding you need? Devotion by Mary Loudermilk

Craving a Holy Hunger

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." (Romans 12:2, NKJV) We are often only vaguely aware of innate spiritual yearnings and cravings within us. Yet, if we fail to heed those cravings, they are quietly snuffed out, and we lose the precious opportunity to cultivate our hunger. Words from the song "Hear Our Prayer" by Tanya Richards say it best: "Like a deer longing for water, my heart yearns. Only You can fill my deep hunger, my heart burns!" It is in our hunger and pursuit of Him that He is found! God will come by invitation and birth holy passion in us if we make room for Him. Hebrews 11:6 declares, "He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." Amos 5:4 challenges us with: "Seek me (inquire for and of me and require Me, as you require food) and you shall live" (Amplified Bible). We usually require natural food several times a day. If I really desire something to eat, I can find it even if I must exert effort in the pursuit. How hungry are we for God? How much energy goes into filling that spiritual hunger that demands attention? Noted evangelist Verbal Bean led a life punctuated by encounters with God. He often challenged congregations to run after prayer. Once, he asked church members to make lists of their daily activities and bring them to him. As they stood and read their descriptions, they were often shocked to find how far down their lists prayer had been bumped! One godly woman broke down and wept when she realized it had been four days since she had found time to pray. Busyness is like that, robbing, stripping, and leaving us barren. If we will pray unrelentingly for a holy hunger, He will give it to us! By regularly knocking on the door of His heart and crying out for more, we send up distress signals to Him that won't be ignored. On certain days, I make "prayer reservations." I tell the Lord, "I'm seeking You with an organized zeal today." I let Him know that I'm famished and that He will be my main course for the day. It's amazing how we find time for the things that we really want. So much of our missed prayer is fed by lame excuses. Smith Wigglesworth used to say that he never prayed a long time, but never went a long time without prayer. The length of time is not as important as the message we transmit: "See our longings and give us a holy hunger!" When we empty ourselves and follow after Him, He comes to us. It takes discipline for our flesh to surrender in brokenness and waiting. In an act of obedience, we are spiritually nourished. It is critical to spend time reverently listening. If we allow time for His voice, He will speak. His still small voice nourishes, strengthens, and changes us all at the same time. He truly becomes the "rewarder of them who diligently seek him." He has the miraculous ability to feed us, satisfy us, and yet leave us hungering for more. A heartfelt hunger for holiness will become not just a one-time experience but a vibrant ongoing passion! PRAYER Lord God, Awaken in me a holy hunger for You. Where my desire has grown dull, breathe fresh life into my spirit again. Teach me to seek You not as a last resort, but as my greatest pursuit. Forgive me for the times I have allowed busyness, distraction, or discouragement to quiet my devotion. Draw my heart back to the place where I long for Your presence above all else. Renew my mind and reshape my desires. Let my soul learn to recognize Your voice and respond quickly when You speak. Satisfy me with Your presence, and yet keep me longing for more of You each day. Make my life one that seeks You diligently and finds joy in Your nearness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Blessed Life

"They that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing" (Psalm 34:10). "I want. I want. I need. I need. There are so many things I want and need." That little ditty is comical but true. We want it all. From the beginning, God promised good things to those who followed Him. He told Abram, "I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing" (Genesis 12:2). What does it mean to be blessed? Parents bless their children, friends bless each other, and God blesses us. When we are blessed, we have the favor and best wishes of another. While it is always nice for someone to speak a blessing into our lives, a blessing from God goes beyond good wishes; it includes the power to bring those benefits to pass. How do we become recipients of God's blessings? The answer is simple. When we obey God's Word, we have a good life. When we disobey, things are more difficult than necessary. The Bible tells us, "The way of transgressors is hard" (Proverbs 13:15). We shy away from words like obedience and submission. Their negative connotations suggest we will be left with less, not more. God's approach is the opposite of ours. "My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord" (Isaiah 55:8). When He tells us to obey and submit to His will for our lives, He promises fabulous benefits. "And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: and all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God" (Deuteronomy 28:1-2). Can you imagine being pursued by blessings? Everywhere we go and everything we do under the umbrella of God's approval? Just as absolute, not observing God's commandments has dire consequences. "But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee" (Deuteronomy 28:15). Is obedience to God's Word really so important? If we desire all the good things—God's blessings, anointing, favor, provision, and approval—it is critical. Obedience to God's Word is more than a suggestion or a good idea. It is a sin issue. Whenever we refuse to submit, when we are stubborn and rebel, we are sinning. "Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry" (I Samuel 15:23). Sin separates us from God. (See Isaiah 59:2.) In addition, it prevents God's blessings from coming our way. "Your sins have withholden good things from you" (Jeremiah 5:25). Radical obedience guarantees radical blessings. "No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly" (Psalm 84:11). When God blesses our lives, He does more than provide us with good things. Like Abram's promise, the bounty and benefits overflow and splash onto the lives of those around us. (See Genesis 12:1-3.) Not only are we blessed, but we become conduits of His blessings. God uses us to touch, love, and lift others. A life blessed by God is ours for the taking. The decision is easy. Every day we simply say, "Dear God, I'll do it Your way!"