The Reward of Diligence
Proverbs 6:6-8 (NKJV)
"Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, which, having no captain, overseer, or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer and gathers her food in the harvest."
Proverbs 10:4 (NKJV)
"He who has a slack hand becomes poor, but the hand of the diligent makes rich."
The Bible encourages diligence in all our endeavors, Solomon said “Go to the ant you sluggard consider its ways and become wise!!” The ant achieves through faithful labor, working tirelessly, preparing for the future without needing supervision or motivation. Its diligence is part of its nature and character it is what the ant does!
Proverbs 24:30-34 (NKJV)
"I went by the field of the lazy man, and by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; and there it was, all overgrown with thorns; its surface was covered with nettles; its stone wall was broken down. When I saw it, I considered it well; I looked on it and received instruction: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest; so shall your poverty come like a prowler, and your need like an armed man."
Laziness is the opposite of diligence…..poverty is the reward for laziness. Promotion favor and prosperity is the reward for diligence.
Proverbs 10:4 teaches us that the "hand of the diligent" will rule or be made rich. Diligence is not just about hard work—it’s about consistent effort, focus, and faith in the outcome. While laziness leads to poverty and missed opportunities, diligence brings growth, provision, and prosperity, both physically and spiritually.
God honors those who approach their work with diligence and faithfulness, seeing even the unseen efforts. When we combine faith with diligent action, we position ourselves to receive His blessings. As we labor in life—whether in our jobs, ministries, or personal growth—we should do so as unto the Lord, trusting that He will bring blessing on our labours.
Response
Be Proactive: Like the ant, take initiative in your tasks and responsibilities. Don’t wait for external motivation; work diligently with a mindset of preparation.
Stay Faithful in Your Labor: Trust that God sees your diligence and will reward your faithfulness.
Combine Faith and Effort: Believe in God’s provision while putting in the work He calls you to do. Faith without works is dead (James 2:26).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of the ant and the wisdom of Your Word. I repent and renounce all laziness and lack of care for wehat you have given me. Teach me to be diligent and faithful in all that I do. Strengthen my hands to do the work You’ve given me and help me to labor with purpose, joy, and perseverance. So I can be a blessing to those around me, In Jesus' name, Amen.