“Few things are impossible to diligence and skill. Great works are performed not by strength, but perseverance.” Samuel Johnson (1709 - 1784).

One of the difficult aspects of learning the English language is that we have so many words that mean almost the same thing. If you have ever had a friend or close acquaintance that is trying to learn our native tongue you have undoubtedly gotten a chuckle or two when they have chosen a word which may technically be what they are trying to say, but carries with it a connotation or alternative meaning that is not really what they are after.

The nuances of English also present difficulties to translators, especially of ancient languages like Greek, Latin, Aramaic, and Hebrew. This is why you have so many different translations of the Bible and so much controversy over how some passages are rendered in English.

Yet, despite the challenges inherent in translating very different and sometimes dead languages into a language that is so modern and constantly evolving, it is in the nuances of some of the words that we can find some of the deeper and richer messages in the word of God. A good example of this is found in the base text for our current series of sermons. As we mentioned last week, in II Peter 1:5-11, we find nine qualities we are told to possess in order to live a Christian life. Two of those qualities are diligence and perseverance.

While many people think the words diligence and perseverance are basically interchangeable, the difference between the two, while subtle, is significant. To be diligent means to exercise an appropriate level of care and thoroughness. For instance, no one would not buy a house without diligently determining the identity of the owner.

Diligence implies perseverance but, of course, to persevere means primarily continue a chosen course of action despite hardships and obstacles. The life of Thomas Edison is a wonderful example of perseverance. His inventions usually resulted from the “trial and error” method, with much more failure than success. However, when he did succeed, the results were truly historic.

The meanings of the two terms are very close but in their slight differences we can see why they would both be required of a Christian. We must be diligent in acquiring the knowledge and developing the skills necessary to serve God in the manner He desires. We must also persevere when we encounter the inevitable obstacles and trials of life in this world.

Most Christians excel in either diligence or perseverance but only a few diligently persevere. Yet, this is our calling. These are two of the characteristics we must possess and develop in order to remain faithful to our beliefs throughout our lives.

Those with recent losses—Family and friends of Joel Farinas

Tracee & Matt Health for Tracee and employment for Matt.

Bonita Hutchins sister of Betty Brumfield,

Doran Hougham, Bone Cancer

Albert Lee Wolford, Dale Loofburrow, Judy Lundgren’s mother, Tina Vest and her husband for his diabetes. Jennifer Walden, Don Micheauy, Ruth Colgrove, Ford Vest, farther-in-law of Tina Vest,

Tina Vest, Frank Hermsen health and spiritual strength and guidance.

Steve Hogan, Bridgette's father, Joshua Richards, Bromerick Richards, Teresa Petta, Desri Crawford health.

Please remember all of the young people with ties to this congregation serving in our nation’s armed forces.