Be diligent so that you receive your full reward. 2 John 1:8 NLTDo you often misplace something you need every day, like your phone, glasses, or keys?
I regularly misplace my keys. Sometimes they are on my desk. Other times, in my coat pocket. And other times, I "lose" them inside the depths of my purse.
My lack of diligence causes unnecessary frustration and stress when I'm trying to get out the door, right when I could use a fresh dose of peace.
Last time I was at Walmart, I bought an 88-cent purple carabiner and clipped it to the ring on my purse's handle. I spend an extra two seconds to clip my keys to it, and now I know right where they are. They haven't gotten lost since.
This small act of diligence has brought me unexpected peace. Yes, it's one extra step I must take, but it's worth it. And I've started examining other areas of my life that can become more peaceful with diligence.
In our fast-paced world, we have forgotten the value of diligence. We look for instant results, even in our spiritual lives. Being diligent means putting in a lot of hard work over a long period of time.
You can learn the value of diligence in reverse. Since August 2016, I've neglected regular exercise. The extra pounds which make my pants feel too tight are proof that diligence pays off.
Since I sit all day for work, I've started a new journal just for food and exercise. Yesterday I set a timer to get up every 30 minutes and do jumping jacks, squats, etc. My sore legs this morning actually made me feel happier, because they are proof that if I keep on this path, I'll be healthier and happier BEFORE January 1, rather than starting a healthy program then. I have to give up a little now to reap a big reward later.
I regularly misplace my keys. Sometimes they are on my desk. Other times, in my coat pocket. And other times, I "lose" them inside the depths of my purse.
My lack of diligence causes unnecessary frustration and stress when I'm trying to get out the door, right when I could use a fresh dose of peace.
Last time I was at Walmart, I bought an 88-cent purple carabiner and clipped it to the ring on my purse's handle. I spend an extra two seconds to clip my keys to it, and now I know right where they are. They haven't gotten lost since.
This small act of diligence has brought me unexpected peace. Yes, it's one extra step I must take, but it's worth it. And I've started examining other areas of my life that can become more peaceful with diligence.
How familiar are you with the virtue of diligence?
dil·i·gence
ˈdiləjəns/
noun
dil·i·gence
ˈdiləjəns/
noun
- careful and persistent work or effort.
In our fast-paced world, we have forgotten the value of diligence. We look for instant results, even in our spiritual lives. Being diligent means putting in a lot of hard work over a long period of time.
You can learn the value of diligence in reverse. Since August 2016, I've neglected regular exercise. The extra pounds which make my pants feel too tight are proof that diligence pays off.
Since I sit all day for work, I've started a new journal just for food and exercise. Yesterday I set a timer to get up every 30 minutes and do jumping jacks, squats, etc. My sore legs this morning actually made me feel happier, because they are proof that if I keep on this path, I'll be healthier and happier BEFORE January 1, rather than starting a healthy program then. I have to give up a little now to reap a big reward later.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 NIV
Maybe diligence isn't your problem. Maybe weariness is. Do you know that your regular good work, even the kind that no one else sees, matters to God? Your prayers for a difficult person. Your kindness that is brushed off. Your conversation that goes one way when you long for it to be returned. Your time and energy given to littles, friends or family members that feels unappreciated.
Friend, God values your work. He values your faithful contribution to preserving and building up his kingdom. Every area where you are diligent matters to God, because you matter to him!
Friend, God values your work. He values your faithful contribution to preserving and building up his kingdom. Every area where you are diligent matters to God, because you matter to him!
If you enjoyed this post, please share on your favorite social media site using the buttons below.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Blessings and God's peace to you,
Photo from Canva.com
Reflection questions:
1. In which area can you benefit most from more diligence?
2. How did this devotion help you see the value in diligence in your life?
Thanks for sharing this, Sarah. It's true. We want things to be fast and easy, but God wants us to learn patience, faithfulness, and diligence!
ReplyDelete