Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 9:11
This verse suggests that success does not always come from effort, as time and chance can determine outcomes.
Ecclesiastes 9:11: I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race [is] not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.
Contradiction with Matthew 23:11-12
These verses indicate that those who serve and humble themselves, rather than those who are diligent and seek positions of power, will be exalted.
Matthew 23:11-12: But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
Contradiction with Luke 12:27
Here, it is suggested that God provides for those who do not labor, using the lilies as an example, which contrasts with the idea that diligent labor leads to ruling.
Luke 12:27: Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Contradiction with Matthew 6:26
This verse reflects that God provides for the birds without their need to toil, contradicting the implication that diligent effort is necessary for sustenance or leadership.
Matthew 6:26: Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
Contradiction with James 4:13-15
It states that despite diligent planning, one should remember that future outcomes are ultimately in God's hands, which contrasts with the notion that diligence leads to control or rulership.
James 4:13-15: Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict might be that this verse praises hard work and diligence as leading to leadership or authority, but this could feel inconsistent with other teachings in the Bible about humility or valuing all people equally, regardless of their status or achievements. It may suggest that those who don't become leaders or achieve high status are less diligent, which could conflict with the idea of valuing all individuals equally.