Diligence
When Tattenai, governor of Trans-Euphrates, writes to King Darius to warn him that the people have restarted the building work, he includes this phrase in the letter –
The work is being carried on with diligence and is making rapid progress under their direction. Ezra 5:8
This got me thinking about diligence.
And when Darius replies to say that after some research, he has decided that they can continue with the building work, he says –
I Darius have decreed it. Let it be carried out with diligence. Ezra 6:12
noun: diligence
careful and persistent work or effort.
There’s something about diligence that sounds a bit boring to me. Diligent means conscientious, industrious, meticulous, punctilious, careful, thorough, attentive, persistent, tenacious, dogged……all rather serious, don’t you think?
But it is a good thing. Definitely a good thing. After all, if a thing is worth doing, it is worth doing well. When I commit to something, I commit to something. I give it my all. I take it seriously. I’m dedicated.
That’s why my running group found it so hard to persuade me to cancel running on Sunday night when it was blowing a gale and the rain was lashing down.
That’s why when I say I’ll be there, I’ll be there.
That’s why however much positive feedback I get about my community role at work, I will always be striving for ways to do my job better.
That’s why I find it hard to quit and have no tolerance for quitters.That’s why I listen attentively to my dance teacher’s every word, even though I stand very little chance of ever being able to translate it into noticeable improvement.
That’s why when I watch a TV programme, I 100% watch the TV programme and cannot abide any distraction in the room.
This used to stem from one of my greatest fears that I carry with me from childhood – the fear of being labelled ‘lazy’.
In fact, diligence is listed as one of the seven heavenly virtues that are the opposite to the seven deadly sins and diligence is the antonym to sloth.
Actually, nowadays, this work ethic of diligence which is more than just a work ethic, but a work, rest and play ethic that has taken on a more positive meaning for me. Now it’s all about living life to the full. Making the most of every single day. Making the most of who I have been created to be. Being the best I can be in every situation (within my own limitations – have a read of my post ‘According to their ability, they gave’ to see what I mean by this). As I said, if anything is worth doing, it’s worth doing well – otherwise, why do it at all? And by well, I don’t mean to the highest standard – I mean give it everything you’ve got, whatever standard that turns out to be – come see me dance to see that truth in action.
I’ll leave you with the Wikipedia definition of diligence from the table of the seven heavenly virtues. It pretty much sums up all I have been saying.
A zealous and careful nature in one’s actions and work; decisive work ethic, steadfastness in belief, fortitude, and the capability of not giving up. Budgeting one’s time; monitoring one’s own activities to guard against laziness. Upholding one’s convictions at all times, especially when no one else is watching (integrity).
This is what the people of God brought to their work. And the people around them noticed. Of course they did.This is what we are expected to bring to everything that we do today.
Every moment is an opportunity. Forget what has gone before; don’t worry about what is still to come. Focus on what is before you right now and bring your best.
That is rewarding. That is fulfilling. That is uplifting. That is living life to the full.
