Meeting in the Meadow: Diligence (Proverbs 10), by Roy Lessin

Diligence
By Roy Lessin

He becomes poor who works with a slack and idle hand, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. Proverbs 10:4 AMP

One of the flaws in education is placing a strong emphasis on grades and not on character. A person can graduate college with academic honors and be morally bankrupt. Poor character impacts every area of our lives, especially the workplace. Many times I have heard employers say, “It’s so hard to find good help. People don’t know how to work.”

In the apprenticeship system, young people grew up learning a trade and learning how to work with their hands. Children who grew up on farms often learned that playtime was a privilege, not a right. Everyone who has a job has a choice to make. He can either be slack in his work or diligent. Employers notice the difference and reward those whose work is honest and noble.

Jesus, teach me to work as you worked. You knew what it meant to be in the workplace day after day, as an apprentice and as a craftsman. Show me what it means to be persistent and hard-working. I want to have the consistent joy of going home each day knowing I have put in a good day's work and have done my best. 

©2016 Roy Lessin, photo by Marina Bromley. Used with permission. Originally posted 10/2008. Any requests to re-print may be directed to MeadowRequests@gmail.com