Proverbs-the Diligence Life

Walking in determination with excellence

Photo by NHP&Co on Unsplash

Once again, let’s continue exploring another trait often found in the book of Proverbs. And what that might be? It’s the trait of diligence or excellence! It’s become a buzz word and even a hot topic for many organizations today. Even the Christian arena touts its importance.

Solomon talks about this trait many times in the Proverbs. He uses the word or one of its derivatives at least eleven times. I particularly like his admonition when he says, “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” (Proverbs 10:3-4 NIV)

Diligence Defined

So, what is diligence? It’s a trait of the inner man that causes a person to be determined to accomplish a task or purpose. The Hebrew word translated diligence is the word “kawroots.” It literally means to be eager, determined and decisive, active, rather than inactive.

The fact is that each of you reading this article has the capacity to obtain to it. Although it’s an intangible item, it’s very real and attainable. As a child of God you can walk in it! Of course, it will need to be continually developed and increased in your life.

It is also a “must have” as we walk through life. Without it, life becomes a constant challenge and chore. Daily living soon becomes a grind. With it, no task is too hard, trials and problems simply become challenges to face. Hard work becomes enjoyable and worth the cost.

One more nugget as we close. The word diligent is often used in the Proverbs as what I would call a contrasted scenario. The implication is that if you understand the comparison, then you will understand the Proverb. We often learn what something means, by understanding what it doesn’t mean. Right?

Here are few scriptures to make the point. Prov. 12:24,27; 13:4; 21:5.

Conclusion

Here’s the question you might need to ask yourself; Am I a diligent person? If you are, then how can you deepen the trait. If you’re not, then why?

If you are looking for a remedy, here it is, read the Proverbs! When you do this regularly it can help. It can indelibly imprint the trait upon both heart and mind.

So, here’s the challenge: would you become a regular reader of the Proverbs for 30 days? Take note of your diligence before you start, then compare at the end of 30 days.

You might be pleasantly surprised!