Posted: 05 May 2026

From a sermon given on 03 May 2026:

The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.
(Proverbs 12:27)

This proverb paints a vivid picture of wasted opportunity. A hunter captures prey but is too lazy to prepare it for food, losing what he worked to obtain. The lesson is clear: laziness wastes potential, while diligence preserves and multiplies it. Biblical scholar Derek Kidner notes, "The sluggard not only fails to start things; he fails to finish them." God values not only effort but faithful follow-through.

Scripture repeatedly honors diligence. Joseph served faithfully in prison and in Potiphar's house, and his consistent diligence led to leadership in Egypt (Genesis 41:39-41). Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem despite opposition because he remained focused on the task (Nehemiah 4:6). John Wesley advised believers, "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can." Faithful work often becomes the channel through which God releases His purposes.

Ultimately, diligence reflects the character of God Himself. Jesus Christ declared, "My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working" (John 5:17). Charles Spurgeon said, "By perseverance the snail reached the ark." When believers cultivate diligence, opportunities are not wasted but transformed into lasting fruit. What we faithfully steward today often becomes tomorrow's blessing.

Further Readings:

Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.
(Ecclesiastes 9:10)

The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
(Proverbs 13:4)

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
(Colossians 3:23-24)