March 6, 2018
What does it say?
Diligence and integrity bring blessing, security, and peace. Laziness and evil behavior result in poverty, grief, and ruin.
What does it mean?
Solomon contrasted the godly actions of the wise with the negative behavior of the foolish. Knowing the value of hard work, the wise person displays godly qualities of diligence, dependability, and integrity. He also has a sense of purpose and prepares for the future. As a result, he experiences blessings from God and respect from others. However, a lazy person loses sight of what is important and thinks only of himself. Anyone who lives to please himself alone fails to please the Lord and brings dishonor to himself and his family.
How should I respond?
Many in today’s society seem to have lost a sense of purpose. Instead of taking initiative and doing their best, they have a mindset of doing only what must be done to get by. However, God designed us to be engaged in fulfilling, productive work. How are you diligently doing the work He’s called you to do? In what areas do you need to discipline yourself to persevere? People who don’t know Jesus personally often form opinions of Christ based on how professing believers behave. As a follower of Christ, your work ethic reflects your faith. If your focus is on working for the Lord with integrity, others will seldom be disappointed.