Displaying Diligence in Everything

When it comes to our work in the marketplace, we could all probably use more diligence. In Romans 12:11, the Apostle Paul uses the word diligence to discuss how we should remain in everything God has given us. Diligence in this verse can mean haste, speed, or earnestness.

So what does this mean for us? It means that we’re not simply going through the motions. In everything we do, we give one hundred percent effort. We’re not in the back, bringing up the rear, but we’re leaders who are in the front performing with fervor.

However, we don’t strive to stay at the front of the pack while our devotion to God and the work he’s placed in our hands suffers. Oftentimes, being diligent means doing our best and giving an earnest effort. Paul also talks about this in Colossians 3 when he tells the Colossians to commit to their work heartily as if the work is directly for Jesus himself. Simply going through the motions is unacceptable for Jesus's followers.

Our earnestness also produces a spirit of excellence in us. We complete our work with a special zeal and energy others are sure to notice. So, if the fire feels like it’s fizzing out, we can ask God to renew our resolve to perform our work with diligence. He’s sure to meet us in our effort if we ask him. God’s Word promises that if we don’t grow tired of doing good, we will reap a harvest if we don’t give up (Galatians 6:9).