For several years now, at least once a year, I spend one of the months with 31 days reading through Proverbs one chapter a day. So I have read the verse several times, I am sure. Last week, however, the Lord applied the weight of Biblical authority to this work He was doing in my heart to more efficiently order my life. No longer could I weasel out of this longing by claiming it was flesh. God’s Word had now spoken. And it wasn’t even in a month with 31 days nor was it on the 21st day. Here is the verse and my challenge to you through it.
The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance,
but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty. – Proverbs 21:5
Funny how mathematical the verse seems. Plans + Diligence = Abundance. I want my life to be an abundant, overflowing life – not necessarily financially, but in joy, influence, and especially spiritual fruit. A joyful, influential, fruitful life, however, does not happen accidentally. It happens intentionally. Plans. Diligence.
If I want the various roles of my life to yield joy, influence, and fruit, I have to be intentional. If I want a great attitude, well-managed finances, or growing spiritual walk, I have to be intentional. I will never drift into that kind of life, I must pursue it by design. Things that truly matter in life require intention.
Here is my challenge. Choose ONE area of your life that you would like to be more fruitful. Honestly assess where you are, then where God would want you to be in that area. Work diligently in that area until you feel you are where you need to be, and then choose another area to do the same. Step by step you will find yourself closer to the life of joy, influence, and fruitfulness.
What specific, intentional steps will you take to get from where you are to where God wants you to be?
I press on toward the goal
for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 3:14