We've been talking about "Vision" in one of our Bible classes here in Cofradia. It is challenging us all to really dig deep, spend time with the Lord, and allow Him to speak to us about what impacts us and how we want to help meet specific needs that we see. We want to allow Him to give us vision for our life and ministry.
This has been something that I've been passionate about for a long time...helping others find purpose, help meet needs they see, and have vision for their life. So, it makes sense that Proverbs 13:4 stood out.
In the NIV, it says, "The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied." In my own words, I would say "Do nothing; expect nothing. Do something; expect something."
The sluggard who craves is the person that sees needs, but does not do anything about those needs. It's the person that has a vision, but is afraid to step out. On the contrary, the diligent person's vision will come to life because they are taking steps towards that vision. They see needs and they do what they can to help meet those needs.
The opposition--whatever reason that keeps people from stepping out--will sometimes manifest itself as discouragement. This discouragement could come from people or leaders in your past that have planted this seed through their words of criticism. Criticism can be constructive or destructive. To be constructive, it must come out of love and a willingness to invest. Otherwise, it can be very destructive. This destruction can cause discouragement down the road and prevent those who have a vision to take action. The enemy, Satan, will remind you of the criticism. He'll say that you are not fit or capable to carry out your plans (Nehemiah 4:1-3).
If your vision comes from God, your plans will succeed. Be diligent; don't lose heart. Keep the faith and vision the Lord has given you; "...the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied."
You can't expect something without doing something.
Discouragement will distract you from being diligent.
DO SOMETHING; EXPECT SOMETHING.
