THEME: SURPASSING EXPECTATIONS THANKSGIVING DILIGENCE- Ephesians 3:20
THE POWER OF DILIGENCE
Diligence is a vital virtue that enables us to achieve our goals, surpass expectations, and fulfil our purposes. The Bible emphasizes the importance of diligence in various passages: Proverbs 10:4 – “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.”
Proverbs 12:24 – “Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labour.”
Benefits of Diligence
1. Proverbs 22:29 – “The one who is diligent in his work will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.”
2. Psalm 127:1-2 – “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain, you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves.”
Examples of Diligence in the Bible
1. Jesus Christ (John 9:4) – “As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming when no one can work.”
2. Paul the Apostle (1 Corinthians 15:10) – “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.”
3. The Ant (Proverbs 6:6-8) – “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”
How to Cultivate Diligence:
1. Set Clear Goals: Define your objectives. Having a clear objective gives you focus.
2. Create a Routine: Establishing a daily or weekly routine can help you allocate time and energy to you.
3. Stay Organized: Organize your tasks and priorities. This guarantees that you are not wasting time.
4. Find Inspiration: Surround yourself with sources of inspiration.
Dear Heavenly Father, grant us the spirit of diligence and discipline. Help us to prioritize our tasks and manage our time effectively. Give us the strength and motivation to work hard and surpass our expectations this new year in Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
May the power of diligence inspire and empower you to achieve greatness 2025!
Happy New Year.
Pastor Sam Ayodele
Host Pastor