Slow and Steady Wins the Race

When I read of the virtuous woman in Proverbs,

I often think of the Aesop's Fable about the Tortoise and the Hare.

It is not speed that is commended.

It is not big talk that is commended.

It is diligence and hard work and faithfulness to the task that God values.

Proverbs 12:11 

He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: 

but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.

The virtuous woman has the proper priorities:

work over play.

She knows that she has responsibilities at home 

which are more important than "playing" with "the girls."

Do you care for the needs within your home

or are you distracted by the need for entertainment and "me-time"?

Proverbs 12:24 

The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: 

but the slothful shall be under tribute.

Do you have trouble controlling your home or those you are in charge of?

Perhaps you lack diligence. 

A position of leadership requires consistency and attention to details.

No one wants to follow a lazy, inconsistent leader.

Children especially know when you are lazy in your discipline.

If there is a chance that they can get away with sin, they will try it.

It is quite easy to tell if a parent is consistent with discipline:

her children respond to just a look, one word, their names, or  even a sound.

They know the boundaries are always the same 

(even when mommy is sick/tired,  or out in public, or has company) 

and stay within those lines.

Proverbs 12:27 

The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: 

but the substance of a diligent man is precious.

The diligent woman values what she has and appreciates what she has been given.

I am easily upset by the welfare mentality. 

This mindset says that I deserve what I am given,

that I have earned a free ride.

This mindset also tends to waste - "because it cost me nothing."

I have seen this passed on to children.

Many children are allowed to destroy their toys, their clothes ...

Why?

"It was free, it was just a dollar, ..."

Do you waste food?

Do you allow your children to "trash" their clothes and toys?

These are not the characteristics of diligence.

Proverbs 13:4 

The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: 

but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.

Diligence is rewarded - both here and in eternity.

I believe that the diligent woman will receive what she needs.

The diligent will also have greater contentment with what God has provided.

Proverbs 13:11 

Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: 

but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.

There is no easy, or quick way to wealth.

dil·i·gence    n.

1. Earnest and persistent application to an undertaking; steady effort; assiduity.

2. Attentive care; heedfulness.

3. steady and careful application

4. proper attention or care

5. constant and earnest effort to accomplish what is undertaken.