27 And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order.
After urging his people to be generous and to care for the poor and needy among them, King Benjamin added this caution: don’t try to do more than you can. “It is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength.” I think it’s significant, however, that he quickly appends the offsetting advice, “And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize.” (See also D&C 10:4.) I think King Benjamin might have been concerned that his people would use his first sentence as an excuse for complacency or negligence. In telling them not to push themselves too hard, he was not giving them license to be lazy.
I remember Gordon B. Hinckley providing a similar caution during a leadership training meeting:
I remember Gordon B. Hinckley providing a similar caution during a leadership training meeting:
Now I’ve been quoted as saying, “Do the best you can.” But I want to emphasize that it be the very best. We’re too prone to be satisfied with mediocre performance. We’re capable of doing so much better (Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting, January 2004).
Today I will strive to do my very best. Even as I acknowledge my limitations and organize my life, I will work hard toward achieving righteous goals, knowing that, with the Lord’s help, I can accomplish great things.