The hand of the diligent will rule. But the slack hand will be put to forced labor. Proverbs 12:24 (NASB)
The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty. Proverbs 21:5 (NIV)
In today’s society not a lot of people stay with it, regardless of what “it” might be. From little things (like not being able to stick to our homework because we keep checking Facebook) to big things (like not keeping a job or not staying married), it seems like staying with it and being faithful, loyal, and diligent have fallen out of favor.
Solomon is quite clear throughout Proverbs, comparing a lazy slacker and a diligent worker. The diligent worker is the winner. The diligent rule while the lazy are forced to work. The diligent are profitable while hasty plans and get-rich-quick schemes lead to poverty. A diligent worker is wise but to be lazy is shameful (Proverbs 10:4). Our culture seems to have forgotten these lessons.
Our greatest opportunities for impact come from sticking with it, from committing to something and staying with it regardless of what life brings. From the most important things (like our faith, our families, our spouses, and our children) to the less important things, people who stick with it make good parents, spouses, and employees. People who stick with it are honored by God. Successful people don’t quit. Successful people commit themselves to the important things and make a difference.
Prayer: Dear Lord, sometimes I don’t want to stick with it. Things are hard, and I just want to quit. When my will is weak, I ask that you strengthen me. When I’m tempted to quit, help me to keep going. With your guidance, point me to the things I need to commit to in my life and help me to honor you with my commitments. Lord, may I always stay with the things that matter and work hard for the glory of your Kingdom. Amen