"Not slothful in business." Romans 12:11
When I was young we lived next door to a kindly old gentleman who worked with but average speed, yet with skillful precision and earnest diligence. As a boy of twelve I stood watching him one day when he turned to me and said, "Perhaps you, like some of the other neighbors, think I am spending a great deal of time on this particular project; but I have learned long ago that speed should always be secondary to quality workmanship. Remember this, my boy: years from now when I am gone and people view what I am building today, no one will ask, 'How long did it take him?' but many will probably inquire, 'Who did it?' It is well to recognize early in life the value of doing your best at all times!" There is not much else I remember about this man, but I have never forgotten the lesson he taught. Christians especially are to be diligent in their labors, performing all their duties as "unto the Lord." There is never an excuse for any of us to be "slothful in business." Men now may little mark our deeds, and often we may go unappreciated despite our most earnest and consecrated efforts, yet we must constantly keep in mind the thought that our real Master is Christ who ever demands our best. He will certainly reward the diligent.
Someone has said, 'There are those who patiently climb the hills of life doing their duty with only God knowing the heroic quality of their work, but God keeps a blessed 'Book of Remembrance' and will someday open it. Then every faithful workman who labored conscientiously to obtain the praise of Heaven will receive a crown!"
Even though you may not have accomplished great things, it is comforting to know that a life of simple consecration always leaves a trace of imperishable beauty and worth on everything it touches.
"Bread For Each Day"
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