Topical Encyclopedia Diligence, as a virtue, is highly esteemed in the Scriptures, particularly in the context of temporal or earthly matters. The Bible consistently underscores the importance of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance, suggesting that such diligence leads to favor and success.Biblical Foundation The Book of Proverbs, known for its practical wisdom, frequently addresses the theme of diligence. Proverbs 10:4 states, "Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth." This verse highlights the direct correlation between diligent work and material prosperity. Similarly, Proverbs 12:24 declares, "The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor." Here, diligence is associated with leadership and authority, while laziness results in subjugation. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul also emphasizes the importance of diligence. In Colossians 3:23-24 , he instructs, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." This passage encourages believers to approach their earthly tasks with dedication, as if serving the Lord directly, promising divine reward for such diligence. Examples of Diligence The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals whose diligence in temporal matters led to favor. Joseph, the son of Jacob, is a prime example. Despite being sold into slavery, Joseph's diligence and integrity in managing Potiphar's household and later in overseeing Egypt's resources during a famine, earned him great favor and authority (Genesis 39-41). Another example is Ruth, whose diligent gleaning in the fields of Boaz not only provided for her and Naomi but also led to her becoming the great-grandmother of King David (Ruth 2-4). Her hard work and loyalty were recognized and rewarded, illustrating the principle that diligence leads to favor. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, diligence in temporal matters is not merely about achieving personal success or wealth. It reflects a deeper commitment to stewardship and faithfulness to God's calling. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) underscores this principle, as the servants who diligently invested their master's resources were commended and rewarded, while the one who acted out of fear and laziness was rebuked. Practical Application For believers, the call to diligence is a call to reflect God's character in their daily lives. It involves a commitment to excellence, integrity, and perseverance in all endeavors, whether in the workplace, home, or community. By doing so, Christians not only position themselves to receive favor and blessings but also serve as a testimony to the transformative power of faith in action. In summary, the Bible presents diligence in temporal matters as a pathway to favor, both in human relationships and in one's relationship with God. Through diligent work, believers honor God, fulfill their responsibilities, and open themselves to the blessings and opportunities He provides. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 11:27He that diligently seeks good procures favor: but he that seeks mischief, it shall come to him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Obedience to God the Way to Faith in Christ. A Summary of the Christian Life. Of Self-Denial. A Summary of the Christian Life. Of Self-Denial. The Same Necessary and Eternal Different Relations Penitence, as Explained in the Sophistical Jargon of the Schoolmen ... Concerning Christian Liberty The Heavenly Footman; Or, a Description of the Man that Gets to ... Concerning Christian Liberty part i On the Interpretation of Scripture Resources What is brotherly kindness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about idleness/being idle? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about procrastination? | 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) |