BEING DILIGENT

We often look at people who are success stories life and think they must be particularly gifted.  While that may have some bearing in some cases, more often than not a person’s success is measured by their diligence – their steady, earnest and energetic efforts over time. 

Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked so hard to achieve. Be diligent so that you receive your full reward. 

2 John 1:8

Through practice and consistent effort, we get better at living the spiritual practices that are foundational to healthy living. 

Our conscious awareness of God's presence increases the more we pray and meditate on His Word.  Peace and rest in our body and soul grows as we regularly make a moral inventory of what has gone on in our day.  We promptly admit anything that has harmed us or someone else and ask God for His forgiveness and a fresh start. 

Our relationships will grow strong as we make the effort to assess what our part was in any tension or hurt and with God’s help make amends. 

The challenge for each of us is not to slack off or get distracted when things are going well.  Where we are today did not come by our own power or smarts.  It is God working in us.  It is God giving us what we need in each set of circumstances, and us being willing to pay attention to His guidance and follow His direction.

God can bless you with everything you need, and you will always have more than enough to do all kinds of good things for others. 

2 Corinthians 9:8

Lord, make us to be diligent in our work in every area of life – physical and spiritual.  We pray that we would be  hard and honorable workers because we know that when we work like that we are also honoring you.

Thank You God for growing strength and stability in our circumstances and relationships today.  Keep us always mindful and diligent in our efforts to get rid of everything that would distract us from what keeps us strong and free. 

We know we are powerless without You.  Help us each day to be diligent in the spiritual practices that keep us conscious of Your will for us, and give us the power to continue to carry it out.  Amen