Diligence is about more than productivity—it’s about stewardship and faithfulness. By working diligently, we reflect God’s character and contribute to His work on earth. Proverbs 6:6-8 calls us to be wise, proactive, and responsible, just like the ant. Let’s strive to make the most of the opportunities God gives us, knowing that our efforts bring glory to Him.
[00:00:37] Welcome to The Bible Speaks with your host Elgin Carelock.
[00:00:42] The Bible Speaks is a daily podcast dedicated to sharing the good news of Jesus Christ,
[00:00:49] rightly dividing the word of truth and learning how to apply it to our daily lives.
[00:00:55] You may contact Elgin at the address given at the end of the broadcast.
[00:00:59] And now here's Elgin.
[00:01:02] Brothers and sisters, I welcome you in the name of our risen Savior, Jesus to Christ,
[00:01:08] to another edition of Words of Inspiration.
[00:01:12] Today we are continuing in our series, Walk with the Wise, a study in the book of Proverbs.
[00:01:19] And today's topic is, Work Diligently.
[00:01:24] Our inspiration comes from Proverbs 6 verses 6 through 8.
[00:01:29] And reading from the New International Version, it reads,
[00:01:33] Go to the ant, you sluggard.
[00:01:36] Consider its ways and be wise.
[00:01:39] It has no commander, no overseer or ruler,
[00:01:44] yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.
[00:01:50] This proverb paints a vivid picture of the diligence we should embody.
[00:01:55] It uses the example of an ant, a tiny creature that works hard and prepares for the future without needing anyone to push it.
[00:02:04] So today we're going to discuss how God's work requires us to be diligent.
[00:02:10] It requires us to be proactive and responsible with the resources and opportunities he gives us.
[00:02:17] We'll also explore practical steps to cultivate a strong work ethic that honors God.
[00:02:22] The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the value of hard work and diligence.
[00:02:29] Proverbs 6, 6 through 8 teaches us to learn from the ant, which works tirelessly to gather food and prepare for the future.
[00:02:38] The ant is a model of industry and responsibility, showing us that diligent isn't about working for recognition.
[00:02:45] It's about doing what needs to be done, even when no one is watching.
[00:02:50] God has given us specific talents, time and opportunities.
[00:02:56] How we use these gifts reflects our gratitude and reverence for him.
[00:03:01] Colossians 3 and 23 reminds us,
[00:03:04] Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for human masters.
[00:03:12] On the flip side, laziness is warned against throughout Proverbs.
[00:03:17] It's easy to fall into a pattern of procrastination or complacency, but these habits can prevent us from fulfilling our God-given purpose.
[00:03:27] Proverbs 10 and 4 says,
[00:03:30] Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands brings wealth.
[00:03:36] Laziness isn't just about doing nothing.
[00:03:38] It's about neglecting the opportunity God places before us.
[00:03:43] When we fail to be proactive, we miss out on blessings and the chance to impact others.
[00:03:50] Laziness can hinder our spiritual growth, limit our potential, and rob us of the joy that comes from a job well done.
[00:03:59] Diligence means being proactive, taking initiative and planning ahead, just like the ant does.
[00:04:06] It's about looking at what God has entrusted to us and asking,
[00:04:11] How can I use this to serve him and others?
[00:04:14] This might mean managing our time more wisely,
[00:04:19] Staying disciplined in our work,
[00:04:21] Or being intentional about developing our skills.
[00:04:25] Ephesians 5 verses 15 through 16 urges us,
[00:04:30] Be very careful then how you live,
[00:04:33] Not as the unwise, but as wise,
[00:04:36] Making the most of every opportunity,
[00:04:39] Because the days are evil.
[00:04:42] We're called to make the most of every moment,
[00:04:45] Using our resources and energy for God's purposes.
[00:04:50] So how do we cultivate a strong work ethic that reflects God's design for our lives?
[00:04:56] Here are a few practical steps.
[00:04:59] Number one, set clear goals.
[00:05:02] Take the time to set goals that align with God's purpose for your life.
[00:05:07] Break those goals down into actionable steps and stay committed to achieving it.
[00:05:13] Number two, create a schedule.
[00:05:16] Time management is the key to being diligent.
[00:05:20] Plan your days to include time for work, rest and spiritual growth.
[00:05:25] Sticking to a schedule helps you stay focused and avoid the trap of procrastination.
[00:05:32] Number three, stay accountable.
[00:05:34] Find someone who can hold you accountable for your work and commitments.
[00:05:40] This could be a friend, a mentor or a family member who encourage you to stay diligent.
[00:05:46] Number four, seek God's guidance.
[00:05:50] Pray regularly for wisdom and strength to work diligently.
[00:05:55] Ask God to show you how to use your time and resources effectively.
[00:06:00] And finally, celebrate small wins.
[00:06:03] Take the time to acknowledge your progress and thank God for the strength he's given you.
[00:06:10] Celebrating small achievements can motivate you to keep working hard.
[00:06:15] Brothers and sisters, in God's kingdom, diligence is about more than productivity.
[00:06:21] It's about stewardship and faithfulness.
[00:06:24] By working diligently, we reflect God's character and contribute to his work on earth.
[00:06:30] Proverbs 6, 6-8 calls us to be wise, proactive and responsible.
[00:06:36] Just like the ant.
[00:06:38] Let's strive to make the most of the opportunity God gives us.
[00:06:43] Knowing that our effort brings glory to him.
[00:06:47] If this message has inspired you, share it with someone who might need encouragement to work diligently.
[00:06:53] And remember, diligence is not just about hard work.
[00:06:57] It's about honoring God with every opportunity.
[00:07:01] I thank you for spending time with me on today.
[00:07:05] And I look forward to our time on tomorrow.
[00:07:07] Until then, God bless.
[00:07:16] The Bible Speaks is sponsored by C Squared Realty and New Gen Construction Group to help spread the gospel to the corners of the earth.
[00:07:26] If anything you've heard poured into your life, please share it with someone.
[00:07:33] You can find The Bible Speaks on Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer and many more.
[00:07:41] Follow us on YouTube at The Bible Speaks Online.
[00:07:47] You may contact Elgin at P.O. Box 5582 Ocala, Florida 34478
[00:07:57] or by email at thebiblespeaksonline at gmail.com