The Entrepreneur’s Devotional:13 Days to Kingdom ImpactSample

The Tortoise and the Hare

The story of the tortoise and the hare is a timeless fable that emphasizes the power of steady, consistent effort over impatience and rushing to the finish line. In the fable, the hare, confident in his speed, rushes ahead while the tortoise takes a slow and steady approach. Eventually, the hare becomes complacent and takes a nap, while the tortoise, continuing at a measured pace, wins the race.

In business and sales, the lesson is clear: success does not always come to those who sprint ahead with bursts of energy but rather to those who remain persistent, consistent, and focused over the long haul. In a world that often glorifies quick success and instant results, we can find wisdom in taking our time and trusting the process, knowing that steady progress leads to lasting results.

Biblical Foundation:

The Bible offers several principles that align perfectly with the message of the tortoise and the hare, underscoring the value of persistence, patience, and trusting in God's timing.

1. Patience and Steadfastness

"But the one who endures to the end will be saved." Matthew 24:13 (ESV)

In the world of business, as in life, it's often the ability to endure—steadily moving forward despite challenges—that leads to success. This passage reminds us that persistence and endurance are key in the race of life. When we trust in God's timing and continue to move forward, we are more likely to finish strong, just as the tortoise did in the fable.

2. Faithfulness in Small Things

"One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much." Luke 16:10 (ESV)

This verse emphasizes the importance of being faithful in the small, seemingly insignificant tasks. Often, in business, we may feel like the "little things" don’t matter, but it’s those small, consistent efforts that lead to great results. Just like the tortoise, who never stopped moving forward, every small action contributes to the larger success.

3. Trusting God’s Timing

"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven." Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV)

In business, the temptation is to rush and force things to happen, but God's timing is always perfect. The tortoise’s slow pace was part of the divine design, and as we trust God with our efforts, we can have confidence that He will guide us at the right pace and bring success in His time.

4. Diligence

"The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied." Proverbs 13:4 (ESV)

Diligence, or steady effort over time, leads to abundance. The hare’s impulsiveness didn’t lead to results, but the tortoise’s consistent diligence won the race. In business, it’s easy to get distracted or discouraged by others who seem to be achieving faster. Yet, the Bible encourages us to be diligent and patient in our work. As we are diligent, God promises to supply what we need.

Business Application:

- Consistency over Instant Results: Just like the tortoise, it’s important to focus on building a solid foundation in your business. Focus on providing value, nurturing relationships, and improving your craft over time. Steady growth, like slow and steady progress, will yield lasting results.

- Avoid the Trap of Comparisons: The hare’s downfall came from comparing himself to the tortoise. In business, it's easy to become discouraged by the perceived "success" of others. However, remember that your journey is uniquely yours. God has a plan for your business, and His timing and path are not the same as anyone else’s.

- Embrace Persistence: Success in business, just like in the race, doesn’t come overnight. It’s about staying faithful, trusting God, and continuing to show up, even on days when it seems like you’re not making progress.

Declaration of Faith:

I declare that I am a faithful steward of the work God has entrusted to me. I will not grow weary in doing good, for I know that at the proper time I will reap a harvest if I do not give up (Galatians 6:9). I choose to be persistent and diligent in all that I do, trusting that God's timing is perfect and His provision is abundant. I will remain steady, faithful, and focused, knowing that as I honor God with my efforts, He will lead me to success in His way and in His time. Amen.