diligence

As I commented about a co-worker, “She’s really diligent,” I realized that I considered that a trait that set her apart. I don’t really expect diligence from people anymore. 

Diligence is an admirable trait; it’s that characteristic of keeping your focus on the right things, taking care of the details, and never letting things get away from you. Diligent people are on top of things. It’s a quality we should value and encourage.

That’s what the author of Hebrews does in Hebrews 6:10-12 when he notes: “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.”

This man recognized that there comes a point in our faith life when it isn’t new anymore. We’ve felt the excitement relief of being forgiven, and have responded in love and gratitude that poured out on other people. At that time we became less selfish and more selfless, and our time and resources flowed to the benefit of others.

Then, there comes a temptation to coast. We’ve proven our love, we’ve demonstrated our faith, and we’ve gotten our life more or less in order. We may feel it’s time to start enjoying the blessings. We may decide that younger, newer believers can carry the load now.

Don’t give in, the writer tells us. Keep showing that admirable trait of diligence. When God has work to be done, show up. Be faithful in prayer. Put in the hard work of Bible reading, meditation and discussion. Why? Because that’s how we make the most of the new hope we have; that’s how we inherit the things we were promised.

In a lot of areas of life we can say, “I’ve paid my dues.” Christians can’t say that. We pay not what is due, but what our loving, grateful hearts want to give. If that giving ever stops, it’s a heart problem.