Speed works well on a race track but can cause problems other places. My parents and grandparents often said haste makes waste.

A few people can complete tasks quickly and well. Most of us need to take our time. A slow but steady pace usually means a safer and better outcome.

When we rush, we waste time and effort.

We may have to repeat our task, because we did not do it right the first time.

Think about the potential problems.

• Lives injured or lost when we drive too fast
• Tests failed when we rush our answers
• Money wasted when we invest in get-rich-quick schemes

Who wants:

• A doctor who won’t take time to answer questions?
• An attorney who skips reading the evidence for a trial?
• A cook who serves food before it’s done?

As John Wooden said, “If you do not have the time to do it right, when will you find the time to do it over?”

“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty” (Proverbs 21:5 NIV).

Special thanks to Lisa Despain for the photo.

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