The word 'diligent' is used several times in Scripture. It describes a person who is determined, dedicated, and tenacious ... unwilling to quit until the job is done.
The 'diligent' have a thought-out plan ... they labor and save; thus their needs are met. In contrast, the lazy suffer lack because they don’t see a task through to the end. They either quit or do shoddy work, resulting in poverty.
Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life. (Proverbs 4:23)
Like a faithful sentry who is alert and unwavering in his duties, we are to guard our hearts and minds. 'Diligence' implies an intentional action to protect, rather than a passive acceptance of anything that seeks entrance.
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5)
Followers of Christ are called to pursue Him with 'diligence'. Many who profess that they are believers approach a relationship with God lethargically, never fully understanding or accepting what being 'crucified with Christ' entails. Saving faith is never a 'lackadaisical existence'.
Jesus emphasized that the greatest commandment is to ... 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength'. (Mark 12:30)
In other words, your ultimate goal as a Christian is to 'diligently' love the Lord. In doing so, obedience to His will becomes a daily pursuit and sanctification transforms you into His likeness.
Don't think you can periodically set your faith aside in order to 'get along' in this world ... and then reclaim it 'at will' when you deem it prudent. That 'lukewarmness' is an affront to God. He wants you to be 'diligent', finishing the race with endurance.
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