Diligent is defined as “Characterized by care and perseverance in carrying out tasks”. How can a leader govern diligently? They can start by paying attention. Pay attention to the details of your work; don’t let things fall through the cracks. People are looking up to you for guidance, information, instruction, and decisions to complete assignments and to provide direction. You must be clear about what is needed or provide the details necessary for others to complete their tasks. If you are not able to provide good guidance, people will jump to incorrect conclusions about projects, assignments or work products. Diligence also requires accountability; you must ensure your people are meeting their obligations – timelines and deliverables within fiscal constraints. There are a number of ways to handle accountability; at one end is micro-management and at the other end is leaving people alone without any follow up on your part. Obviously, it is best to work from somewhere in the middle and to adjust toward either end as the team or team members require. We all work better with some guidance; your responsibility as the as the leader is to provide it, diligently.

 Romans 12:6, 8 – “If a man’s gift is … leadership, let him govern diligently…”

As Paul writes in his letter to the Romans, if we are to lead, we must do it diligently. We must pay attention to the small things; the devil is in the details. It is easy to obey the straight forward commandments like not stealing or killing but what about the “details” of the others like not being jealous of what others have or putting other activities before worship with God, especially during football season. Who is keeping you accountable for what is happening in your life? Confess your sin, give it to the Lord, repent and turn toward God. The good news is that Jesus took it all upon himself on the cross for us. Be diligent in your daily study and time with the Lord, you’ll be rewarded in many ways.