Work Might Not Always Reap the Desired Benefit

Alex worked hard to make his business a success. He worked weekdays, many weeknights and most weekends. He was determined to turn a small business into a mighty mega business.
He had always been taught to work hard. In the end, hard work would pay off and he would be rewarded for his efforts. His eye never swayed from the goal. He prayed daily and asked God to prosper his business.
Although Alex was diligent in the amount of time he worked, he cut corners at every opportunity. He fudged on figures so his books would look good. He worked his employees very hard without paying them according to their efforts. After 20 years of trying to make a go of it, Alex finally had to admit defeat and filed for bankruptcy. Where had he not been faithful? Why weren’t his plans honored?
(Proverbs 10:4) A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.
Originally published March 25, 2021.