Daily Scripture Threshing for Saturday, December 30, 2023
Today’s Text: Ecclesiastes 9:7-10
Key Verse: Ecclesiastes 9:10 (ESV): “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.”
A young artist was directed by his master to complete a painting he had to suspend on account of his growing infirmities. Because the young artist had such reverence for his master's skill, he felt incompetent to touch the canvas that his renowned master was working at. But, "Do thy best," was the old man's calm and repeated admonition to him. So, tremblingly he took the brush, and kneeling before his appointed work, prayed for skill and power to do this deed the best he can. Following his prayer, he summoned courage and his trembling hand grew steady as he painted.
When a man braces up to his best, God releases immense grace that wakes the slumbering genius up in his heart and eyes. He causes enthusiasm to take the place of fear. So, the young artist forgot all the self-distrust that had supplanted his skills for years, and he, with a calm joy would not dare to stop. He worked hard, night and day, employing his very best till he finished the work. When his master’s eye fell upon the triumph of art before him, he bursted into tears, threw his feeble arms around the young artist, and exclaimed, "My son, I paint no more!"
That young artist was the renowned Leonardo da Vinci. He became the painter of "The Last Supper," the ruins of which, after 3 centuries have continued to attract millions across the world, yielding fame and fortunes. Friends, today’s scriptural admonition remains valid at all time: whatever you have opportunity and ability to do, in the duties of your calling, for the glory of God and the good of humanity; do it with all unwearied diligence, vigor, and expedition. Never are we permitted to live idle and sensual life. The reasons are numerous; but one was given by Solomon: “For there is no work in the grave.” — This implies not just death, but as you age, you can neither design nor act any thing tending to the glory of God, or to your own comfort or advantage.
Quote for the Day: “It is never consistent with diligence that a man of such passion should serve his fellow.” — Simon Olatunji
Prayer: Dear Lord and Father, please, grant me the grace to be diligent at all time. Keep me focused, and consistent in my pursuit of excellence. Give me deepened diligence to seek you, the wisdom to find you, the faithfulness to embrace my duty; and a fresh understanding of your ways — through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
With all my love and prayers,
Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.
Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)
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[Daily Scripture Threshing is a devotional guide of The House of Prayer Evangel Church USA distributed for free use by individuals, small groups, families, and Christian churches]
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