Diligence & Understanding
Scripture:
1 Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Matthew 4:3-4
The tempter came to [Jesus] and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
Reflection:
Today I choose to feast on diligence and understanding.
Diligence is a virtue that replaces sloth and understanding helps overcome confusion. Together, these traits allow us to move forward motivated by desire and passion for the things of God. They allow us to know where we are going and to be excited about getting there.
Diligence and understanding work together to reinforce one another. For example, when Jesus is tempted by the devil in Matthew 4, it is Jesus’ understanding of God’s Word that allow him to be diligent in resisting temptation. Understanding comes through time devoted to seeking it in prayer, Scripture reading, and learning in Christian community. Together we help one another to clarify our individual and common callings and provide the support needed to diligently walk in the way of Christ.
Questions for Personal Reflection:
What stands out to me from my reflections this week? What might God still want to teach me?
How can I incorporate practices of diligence and understanding into my life today? How I continue these practices throughout my life?
Prayer:
Share with God any lingering thoughts, questions or feelings from this week. Thank God for the gifts of diligence and understanding that provide a path forward from sloth. Ask God to help you practice diligence and understanding in ways that are life-giving.
These devotions have been adapted from “Lenten Healing: 40 Days to Set You Free from Sin” by Ken Kniepmann.
