Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Scope Diligence in temporal matters refers to the consistent and earnest effort to accomplish tasks and responsibilities related to everyday life, including work, family, and community obligations. This diligence is characterized by a commitment to excellence, perseverance, and integrity in all endeavors. The Bible frequently highlights the virtue of diligence and its role in garnering favor both from God and from others. Biblical Foundation The Scriptures underscore the importance of diligence in various aspects of life, often linking it to prosperity, success, and favor. Proverbs 10:4 states, "Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth." This verse emphasizes the tangible benefits of hard work and the negative consequences of laziness. Similarly, Proverbs 12:24 declares, "The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor," suggesting that diligence leads to positions of influence and authority. Diligence and Divine Favor The Bible presents diligence as a quality that attracts divine favor. In Colossians 3:23-24 , believers are instructed, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." This passage highlights that diligence in earthly tasks is ultimately service to God, who rewards such faithfulness. Examples of Diligence in Scripture Several biblical figures exemplify diligence in temporal matters, leading to favor and success. Joseph, for instance, demonstrated exceptional diligence in managing Potiphar's household and later in overseeing Egypt's resources during a famine. His commitment to excellence and integrity earned him favor with both God and man, as seen in Genesis 39:4 : "Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household and entrusted him with everything he owned." Another example is the industrious woman described in Proverbs 31. Her diligence in managing her household and engaging in commerce brings her praise and respect, as noted in Proverbs 31:31 : "Give her the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her at the gates." Practical Implications The principle that diligence in temporal matters leads to favor has practical implications for believers today. It encourages a strong work ethic, responsibility, and a commitment to excellence in all areas of life. This diligence is not merely for personal gain but is seen as a reflection of one's faith and service to God. As believers strive to be diligent, they are reminded of the promise in Proverbs 22:29 : "Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will be stationed in the presence of kings; he will not stand before obscure men." Conclusion While the Bible does not guarantee material wealth or success as a result of diligence, it consistently affirms that such a virtue leads to favor and opportunities for influence. Diligence is portrayed as a means of honoring God and serving others, ultimately leading to a life marked by purpose and divine blessing. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 11:27He that diligently seeks good procures favor: but he that seeks mischief, it shall come to him. Nave's Topical Index Library 2 Timothy iv. 13-Sep "Thou Shalt Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother. " Second Sunday after Epiphany Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness ... The General Conference of 1836 Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity Paul's Care and Prayer for the ... His First Residence in Germany. Homilies on the Epistle to the Hebrews. Sunday after Ascension Day Resources What does the Bible say about education? | GotQuestions.orgI am a Jehovah's Witness. Why should I consider becoming a Christian? | GotQuestions.org What does Peter mean when he tells us to make our calling and election sure in 2 Peter 1:10? | GotQuestions.org Diligence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Diligence in Temporal Matters Leads to Favor Diligence in Temporal Matters, Leads to Favour Diligence in Temporal Matters, Leads to Honor Diligence in Temporal Matters, Leads to Prosperity Diligence in the Service of God is not in Vain Diligence in the Service of God: Leads to Assured Hope Diligence in the Service of God: Preserves from Evil Diligence in the Service of God: should be Preserved In Diligence: Cultivating Proper Behaviors of a True Christian Diligence: Discharging official Duties Diligence: Following Every Good Work Diligence: Guarding Against Defilement Diligence: Instructing Children Diligence: Jesus an Example of Diligence: Leads to Assured Hope Diligence: Making Our Calling Sure Diligence: Nehemiah and his Helpers Diligence: Preserves from Evil Diligence: Preserving "The Faith" Through Teaching Diligence: Required by God in Cultivating Christian Graces Diligence: Required by God in Discharging official Duties Diligence: Required by God in Following Every Good Work Diligence: Required by God in Guarding Against Defilement Diligence: Required by God in Hearkening to Him Diligence: Required by God in Instructing Children Diligence: Required by God in Keeping the Heart Diligence: Required by God in Keeping the Souls Diligence: Required by God in Labours of Love Diligence: Required by God in Lawful Business Diligence: Required by God in Making Our Call, Sure Diligence: Required by God in Obeying Him Diligence: Required by God in Seeking Him Diligence: Required by God in Seeking to be Found Spotless Diligence: Required by God in Self-Examination Diligence: Required by God in Striving After Perfection Diligence: Required by God in Teaching Religion Diligence: Required in the Service of God Diligence: Saints should Abound In Diligence: Seeking to be Found Spotless Diligence: Striving After Perfection Related Terms Trans-euphrates (12 Occurrences) |