Success!

Yesterday, the quotation on my perpetual daily calendar was: "Expecting success without hard work is like trying to harvest where you haven't planted." Now, it is true I must guard against the attitude that all my success is the result of my own efforts, strength, and wisdom. In ministry I have experienced harvesting where others had planted and I trust others will harvest where I have planted (note John 4:37-38) while at the same time recognizing whatever growth comes from my LABORS in the Lord is by the increase God provides. (note 1 Corinthians 3:6-7) Still, there is PERSONAL EFFORT to be put forth. Physically or spiritually I cannot expect harvest without LABOR.

Solomon stated. . .
"The soul of THE SLUGGARD craves and gets nothing, while the soul of THE DILIGENT is richly supplied." ( Proverbs 13:4 ESV)

The New Living Translation reads: "Lazy people want much but get little, but those who WORK HARD will prosper and be satisfied." [NLT, © 1997, Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House]

There are those who want more, but are not willing to put forth the EFFORT to get it. They want it handed to them. Some even appear to think it is owed them; always looking for the next handout. Consider the birds. Though they do not sow, reap, nor gather into barns, Jesus said God feeds them. ( Matthew 7:26) This was an illustration used as Jesus exhorted away from anxiety or worry on our part. However, He did not say God dropped their food into their nests. As we observe the birds we recognize their DILIGENCE in finding and getting the food God provides.

Even when the LABORS are difficult, work that is worthwhile brings benefit and satisfaction. The same is true spiritually. May we find the personal pleasure and profit in everything we do as we seek to glorify God and fulfill His purposes in this realm. The "U" in "success" may only be one letter of seven, but it is still significant in its reality. Let us not neglect the involvement of "YOU" in the labors of life. As we seek success both physically and spiritually, let us thank God and praise Him for His great part as we remember the need for DILIGENCE on our part.

Have a great day FULFILLING OUR ROLE TO THE BEST OF OUR ABILITY!
Carl

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