Little steps can make a big difference.
Proactive steps can take your ministry
game to a whole new level. In the same
way, little compromises and minor lapses
in discipline can lead to failure. most stands out to me in the passage is
little. It is used three times in verse 33.
Just a little more sleep. Just a little more
time to chill out and relax. Little decisions
can lead to big problems.
I walked by the field of a lazy person, the
vineyard of one with no common sense.
I saw that it was overgrown with nettles.
It was covered with weeds, and its walls
were broken down. Then, as I looked and
thought about it, I learned this lesson: Diligent Dozen
A little extra sleep, a little more slumber,
a little folding of the hands to rest—
then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit;
scarcity will attack you like an armed robber.
(Prov. 24:30–34 NLT)
Solomon shows us the disastrous
results of a poor work ethic. The scene
he describes in verses 30 and 31 didn’t
come about because of a major natural
disaster. A tornado didn’t blow through
town nor did a group of thugs vandalize
the vineyard. The garden’s condition was
the result of daily neglect. The word that
18 • Solutions
In the spirit of Proverbs 24, I want to talk
about my “Diligent Dozen” when it comes
to a strong stewardship ethic. These are
twelve practices that evidence a strong
work ethic. When you live these out, you
win, your team wins, your ministry wins,
and the kingdom wins.
1. Show up on time.
2. Do it now (don’t procrastinate).
3. Take initiative.
4. Care about the whole.
5. Beware of little foxes.
6. Raise your hand (do more than is
required).
7. Follow through.
8. Don’t make excuses.
9. Over-deliver.
10. Have a can-do spirit.