Diligence and Neglect

[320 words] The apostle Peter, in the early part of his second letter, gives emphasis to the importance of Christians being diligent in the development of spiritual qualities. How diligent did he want them to be? He urges, “…giving all diligence…” (2 Pet. 1:5). Later, he adds, “…be even more diligent…” (2 Pet. 1:12). Since Peter wanted these saints to be diligent, he also knew the need for him to be certain he did not neglect his duty to call their attention to such important matters. He recognized he would have been negligent if he failed to remind them and if he did not do it “always” (1:12). It is interesting that the words “diligent” and “negligent” are found in the same context. They are poles apart in meaning. One (diligent) signifies an earnestness, carefulness, a zeal to accomplish. The other (negligent) means to be careless, not to care. Yet,…