Daily Devotional – Friday, May 15, 2026
The lazy man does not roast what he took in hunting, but diligence is man’s precious possession.
Proverbs 12:27 (NKJV)
A hunter walks for many hours over rough terrain, watching quietly, waiting patiently for the right moment to catch his prey. After all that effort, however, he does nothing with the kill. He does not prepare food, and the hard work goes to waste. What should have become useful and nourishing is neglected simply because the hunter fails to finish what he started.
When Effort Goes to Waste
Today’s guiding verse illustrates that laziness is not always obvious at the beginning. People can start with energy, determination, or even success but lose sight of the goal before finishing. The hunter in Proverbs catches the animal but stops at that. Solomon contrasts this with diligence, reminding us that wise people treasure what they have been given and handle it carefully.
Such is often life. A man prays for an opportunity, gets it, and, receiving it gladly, begins to neglect it. A man begins a ministry with zeal, develops a strong relationship, or pursues an important goal, only to lose his consistency along the way. Like the hunter who leaves his game unused, many people fail to develop fully what God has given them.
Why Starting Strong is Not Enough
The verse reminds us that diligence is important, not only at the beginning but also in the middle and at the end. Hard work means not just being busy all day but also moving on responsibly when the thrill is gone. Growth often comes in small acts of obedience repeated over time, and those quiet moments of faithfulness are precious in God’s sight.
Take a moment today to think about what God has already given you. It may be your family, your spiritual life, your work, or a gift you have neglected for some time. Don’t lose something precious through carelessness or discouragement. Ask the Lord to help you be faithful, steady, and willing to finish well what He has lovingly placed in front of you.
Prayer
Almighty God, help me to faithfully care for every opportunity, responsibility, and gift You have placed in my life.
