Planned Behavior

(Pro 21:5 KJV)  The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.

In this section of Proverbs we see a discussion of the many ways in which people try to live their lives and get ahead.  We have arrogance and pride.  We have lies and violence.  In the midst of that is the recommendation to being “diligent” (2742a).  

For the past several months I have been looking for the actual behaviors that will lead to wisdom and the righteous life.  It is amazing how much of Proverbs is praise for wisdom and clever little observations and how rare the clear standards are.  I think that diligence may be one of those standards.  It speaks of being faithful in applying yourself to the tasks of the day.  It reminds us to stop and look ahead so that we can do a bit of planning.  It means you don’t stop work just because it is 5:00 and you can.  Diligence is the behavior that has you get to an appointment a few minutes early to make sure everything is in order.  I remember faculty meetings when I was teaching when the principal would walk in a minute late and then begin to get set up.  It is no wonder that the teachers were late all the time.

So?  A path to wisdom is not paved with good intentions but due diligence.  Something to act on for the day.  You have probably already done enough thinking.