How can we apply Jeroboam's example of diligence in our daily responsibilities? The Snapshot from 1 Kings 11:28 “Now the man Jeroboam was very capable, and when Solomon saw that the young man was industrious, he put him in charge of the whole labor force of the house of Joseph.” (1 Kings 11:28) Observations about Jeroboam’s Diligence • Scripture calls him “very capable” and “industrious.” • His work ethic was visible; Solomon “saw” it. • Diligence led directly to promotion—oversight of an entire labor force. • His excellence advanced God’s unfolding plan, even before the prophet Ahijah announced his future role (vv. 29–40). Timeless Principles for Our Own Responsibilities • Skill plus effort honors God and gains the respect of people. Proverbs 22:29: “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings.” • Visible diligence invites greater stewardship. Luke 16:10: “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” • Work is a sphere of worship. Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men.” • God uses diligent people to accomplish larger purposes, often beyond what they can see at the moment. Practical Steps to Mirror Jeroboam’s Industrious Spirit 1. Set clear, God-honoring goals for every role—parent, employee, student, volunteer. 2. Sharpen skills steadily; growth communicates readiness for more. 3. Work proactively, not merely reactively—anticipate needs as Jeroboam did in leading labor crews. 4. Guard punctuality and reliability; small consistencies build a reputation for trustworthiness. 5. Seek feedback and implement it; Solomon noticed Jeroboam’s outcomes. 6. Celebrate progress with gratitude, recognizing the Lord as the giver of ability (Deuteronomy 8:18). Staying on Track: Lessons from Jeroboam’s Later Life Jeroboam’s early diligence eventually gave way to compromise (1 Kings 12:26-33). To prevent a similar slide: • Anchor motives in pleasing God, not securing position. • Remain teachable; early success can invite pride. • Keep worship central—regular time in the Word and fellowship realigns priorities (Psalm 119:105). • Submit plans to God’s guidance; diligence without dependence can drift into self-reliance. Scripture Promises that Fuel Consistent Effort • Proverbs 12:24: “The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.” • Ecclesiastes 9:10: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” • Galatians 6:9: “And let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up.” • 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” Embrace Jeroboam’s positive example—visible, capable, wholehearted effort—while avoiding his later missteps. In every task, big or small, diligence done “for the Lord and not for men” turns ordinary responsibilities into acts of faithful worship. |
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