Topical Bible: Diligence: Honor

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Topical Encyclopedia

Diligence is a virtue highly esteemed in the Bible, often associated with honor, integrity, and the fulfillment of one's duties. The concept of diligence encompasses a steadfast commitment to work, perseverance in the face of challenges, and a dedication to excellence in all endeavors. In the biblical context, diligence is not merely about hard work but also about the heart's intent and the pursuit of righteousness.

Biblical Foundations

The Bible frequently highlights the importance of diligence, linking it to honor and success. Proverbs 12:24 states, "The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor." This verse underscores the idea that diligence leads to positions of leadership and respect, while laziness results in subjugation and dishonor.

In Proverbs 13:4 , we read, "The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the soul of the diligent is fully satisfied." Here, diligence is portrayed as a pathway to fulfillment and satisfaction, contrasting with the unfulfilled desires of the lazy.

Diligence in Work and Faith

The New Testament also emphasizes diligence, particularly in the context of faith and spiritual growth. In 2 Peter 1:5-7 , believers are encouraged to "make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love." This passage highlights the diligent pursuit of spiritual virtues, suggesting that such effort leads to a fruitful and honorable Christian life.

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often commends diligence in ministry and personal conduct. In Romans 12:11 , he exhorts believers, "Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord." This call to maintain fervor and diligence in service reflects the honor that comes from faithfully fulfilling one's calling.

Diligence and Honor in Leadership

Diligence is particularly significant in the context of leadership. Proverbs 22:29 states, "Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men." This proverb suggests that diligence and skill in one's work lead to recognition and honor, even before those in high positions.

The Bible also presents examples of leaders who exemplified diligence. Nehemiah, for instance, demonstrated remarkable diligence in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, despite facing opposition and challenges. His commitment to the task and reliance on God brought honor to his leadership and success to his mission (Nehemiah 4:6).

Diligence in Personal Conduct

In personal conduct, diligence is associated with integrity and moral uprightness. Proverbs 10:4 notes, "Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth." This verse connects diligence with prosperity and honor, suggesting that a diligent person is rewarded not only materially but also with a reputation for integrity.

The Book of Ecclesiastes also reflects on the value of diligence, advising, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might" (Ecclesiastes 9:10). This exhortation encourages wholehearted effort in all endeavors, aligning with the biblical principle that diligence brings honor and fulfillment.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not explicitly state a conclusion on the topic of diligence and honor, the consistent message throughout Scripture is clear: diligence is a virtue that leads to honor, fulfillment, and divine approval. Whether in work, faith, leadership, or personal conduct, the diligent pursuit of excellence and righteousness is esteemed and rewarded by God.

Nave's Topical Index

Proverbs 12:24
The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.
Nave's Topical Index

Proverbs 22:29
See you a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Concerning the Tabernacle which Moses Built in the Wilderness for ...
... Concerning The Tabernacle Which Moses Built In The Wilderness For The Honor Of God ...
and heard of their conductor, and were not wanting in diligence according to ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 6 concerning the tabernacle.htm

Of his Zeal in Prayer, and the Honor He Paid to the Feast of ...
... Chapter XXII."Of his Zeal in Prayer, and the Honor he paid to the ... But especially
at the salutary feast of Easter, his religious diligence was redoubled; he ...
/.../pamphilius/the life of constantine/chapter xxii of his zeal in.htm

Thou Shalt Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother.
... holy works, I know of none better than to render all honor and obedience ... commandment
was not permitted to be thus [with such care and diligence] commended, but ...
/.../luther/the large catechism/thou shalt honor thy father.htm

"Thou Shalt Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother. "
... Paul says, Titus ii: "Thou shalt exhort servants that they highly honor their masters ...
Paul, Romans 12:"He that ruleth, let him do it with diligence"; as who ...
/.../luther/a treatise on good works/thou shalt honor thy father.htm

Motives to the Oversight of the Flock
... But to be the priest of these priests, and the ruler of these kings - this is such
an honor as multiplieth your obligations to diligence and fidelity in so ...
//christianbookshelf.org/baxter/the reformed pastor/section 3 motives to.htm

Rom. xii. 4, 5
... not say "give" only, but "with largeness;" nor "rule," but do it "with diligence;"
nor "show mercy," but do it "with cheerfulness;" nor "honor," but "prefer ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xxi rom xii 4.htm

Another Season,
... they are sufferings for Christ's sake and the Gospel's, spare no diligence to keep ...
names disgraced, and will you endure nothing to maintain the honor of Christ ...
//christianbookshelf.org/flavel/on keeping the heart/xi another season.htm

It was the Fifth Anniversary of that Resolution of the Senate ...
... "Honor and peace are good things"do not forget that, my young friend. ... were a hint
to the young man that he should prepare himself with all diligence for an ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bacheller/vergilius/chapter 9 it was the.htm

Thou Shalt not Take the Name of the Lord, Thy God, in Vain.
... in worldly business and in matters which concern money, possessions, honor, whether
it ... the great importance of this commandment, that with all diligence we may ...
//christianbookshelf.org/luther/the large catechism/thou shalt not take the.htm

Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity the Christian Calling and Unity.
... with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3 giving diligence to keep ... fruits
should follow as evidence that Christians in their lives honor and obey ...
/.../luther/epistle sermons vol iii/seventeenth sunday after trinity the.htm