Much diligence is required in our lives if we are to grow spiritually. It takes time and effort. In this day where there is so much emphasis on grace, there remains in the new convert a confusion as to what is exactly required of him. It is true that we are saved by grace alone apart from works, not by any righteous works we have done. But the same idea doesn’t exactly apply when it comes to our spiritual growth and progress in Grace.
Scripture is very clear in many places that now we have been saved apart from works, we are now saved unto good works. Eph 2:8-10. Now we are called to all be working out our salvation, with fear and trembling, with the grace and power He supplies. Philippians 2:12-13. Diligence is an essential quality if we are going to see spiritual progress in our lives.
There comes a point in the believer when he takes a hold of Gods grace and is energized by it, putting it to work. Consider Paul’s exhortation to Timothy when he commands him to study, ( be diligent) to present himself approved unto God, a workman who needs not be ashamed but one who rightly divides the word of truth, 2 Tim 2:15. When Peter was writing to the Saints in his second letter, describing the qualities that are given to the Christian as he advances in the faith. diligence is placed as the very first quality that must be present if there was to be spiritual growth. Some of the newer translation translate it as “make every effort.” Spend time in His word, prayerfully praying how you may apply it. Avoid the books that guarantee an effortless, easy spiritual growth. Its not easy and it will take some time to grow spiritually, and some effort and diligence as well!