Topical Encyclopedia Definition and ImportanceDiligence, in a biblical context, refers to the earnest and persistent effort to achieve a goal, particularly in the pursuit of spiritual growth and moral excellence. It is a virtue that underscores the importance of hard work, perseverance, and dedication in the life of a believer. The concept of striving after perfection is rooted in the understanding that while human perfection is unattainable, the pursuit of holiness and righteousness is a continual process that reflects one's commitment to God. Biblical References The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of diligence in the life of a believer. Proverbs 12:24 states, "The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor." This verse highlights the rewards of diligence, contrasting it with the consequences of slothfulness. Similarly, Proverbs 13:4 notes, "The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the soul of the diligent is fully satisfied." Here, diligence is associated with fulfillment and satisfaction, both materially and spiritually. In the New Testament, diligence is linked to spiritual growth and the pursuit of godliness. 2 Peter 1:5-7 urges believers, "For this very reason, 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 outlines a progression of virtues that require diligent effort, emphasizing the active role believers must take in their spiritual development. Theological Significance Diligence is not merely about human effort; it is deeply connected to the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. Philippians 2:12-13 instructs, "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose." This passage highlights the synergy between divine enablement and human responsibility, where diligence is a response to God's grace and empowerment. Practical Application In practical terms, diligence involves a disciplined approach to one's spiritual life, including regular prayer, study of Scripture, and active participation in the life of the church. Hebrews 6:11-12 encourages believers, "We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that your hope may be fully assured. Then you will not be sluggish, but will imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised." This exhortation calls for perseverance and consistency in the Christian walk, looking to the examples of faith in Scripture. Diligence in the Life of Jesus and the Apostles The life of Jesus Christ exemplifies perfect diligence. His commitment to the Father's will, as seen in John 4:34 , "Jesus said to them, 'My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work,'" serves as the ultimate model for believers. The apostles, too, demonstrated diligence in their ministry, as seen in Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 15:10 , "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me." Conclusion While a conclusion is not provided, the exploration of diligence as striving after perfection reveals its integral role in the Christian life. Through diligent pursuit of spiritual growth, believers reflect their commitment to God and His purposes, drawing closer to the image of Christ. Nave's Topical Index Philippians 3:13,14Brothers, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth to those things which are before, Nave's Topical Index Library A Summary of the Christian Life. Of Self-Denial. A Summary of the Christian Life. Of Self-Denial. On the Feast of St Stephen or of St Lawrence Sermon for St. Stephen's Day Washed to Greater Foulness Obedience to God the Way to Faith in Christ. An Exhortation to Peace and Unity How Christ is to be Made Use Of, in Reference to Growing in Grace. Letter xiii. --To the Church at Nicomedia . Letter clxii. To Leo Augustus. Resources What does the Bible say about diligence? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the spiritual gift of leadership? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about laziness? | GotQuestions.org Diligence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Diligence in Temporal Matters Leads to Favor Diligence in Temporal Matters, Leads to Favour Diligence in Temporal Matters, Leads to Honor Diligence in Temporal Matters, Leads to Prosperity Diligence in the Service of God is not in Vain Diligence in the Service of God: Leads to Assured Hope Diligence in the Service of God: Preserves from Evil Diligence in the Service of God: should be Preserved In Diligence: Cultivating Proper Behaviors of a True Christian Diligence: Discharging official Duties Diligence: Following Every Good Work Diligence: Guarding Against Defilement Diligence: Instructing Children Diligence: Jesus an Example of Diligence: Leads to Assured Hope Diligence: Making Our Calling Sure Diligence: Nehemiah and his Helpers Diligence: Preserves from Evil Diligence: Preserving "The Faith" Through Teaching Diligence: Required by God in Cultivating Christian Graces Diligence: Required by God in Discharging official Duties Diligence: Required by God in Following Every Good Work Diligence: Required by God in Guarding Against Defilement Diligence: Required by God in Hearkening to Him Diligence: Required by God in Instructing Children Diligence: Required by God in Keeping the Heart Diligence: Required by God in Keeping the Souls Diligence: Required by God in Labours of Love Diligence: Required by God in Lawful Business Diligence: Required by God in Making Our Call, Sure Diligence: Required by God in Obeying Him Diligence: Required by God in Seeking Him Diligence: Required by God in Seeking to be Found Spotless Diligence: Required by God in Self-Examination Diligence: Required by God in Striving After Perfection Diligence: Required by God in Teaching Religion Diligence: Required in the Service of God Diligence: Saints should Abound In Diligence: Seeking to be Found Spotless Diligence: Striving After Perfection Related Terms Trans-euphrates (12 Occurrences) |
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