“If a man be indolent, the best discipline to which he can be subjected is to suffer the evils of penury.”—Wayland.
“Nothing can be done with a man who will not work. We have in our scheme of government no room for the man who does not wish to pay his way through life by what he does.... Capacity for work is absolutely necessary, and no man can be said to live in the true sense of the word if he does not work.”—Theodore Roosevelt.
“Luck is waiting for something to turn up. Labor, with keen eyes and strong will, will turn up something. Luck whines. Labor whistles. Luck relies on chances. Labor, on character. Luck slips down to indigence. Labor strides upward to independence. Luck lies in bed, and wishes the postman would bring him news of a legacy. Labor turns out at six o' clock, and with busy pen or ringing hammer lays the foundation of a competence.”—Cobden.
13. In spiritual matters, what is also necessary?
“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge.... Give diligence to make your calling and election sure.” 2 Peter 1:5-10.
Note.—In temporal matters the difference between a prosperous man and a sluggard lies principally in the improvement of opportunities. One grasps these, while the other is too indolent to do so. In the gaining of eternal life this same principle applies. God has placed salvation within the reach of all. None need be lost. Christ died for all, but all will not be saved, for some do not care enough for eternal life diligently to lay hold of it.
Neat be your farm; 'tis long confessed
The neatest farmer is the best;
Each bog and marsh industrious drain,