In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus shared the Parable of the Talents, where the master gave his three servants five talents, two talents and one talent, each according to their abilities. The servants who were given five and two talents invested and got five and two talents more, earning the praise from the master:
“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” — Matthew 25:21 (NIV)
But the one who was given one talent buried it, and returned back the one talent to his master, who was furious with him.
God Entrusts Us According to Our Abilities
In the parable, the master gave the servants according to their abilities. God knows us intimately, and He entrusts us according to our abilities. We are stewards for the abilities, responsibilities and opportunities that God has given to us. He has great plans for each of us, and wants to entrusts us with more – when we show that we are good stewards of His gifts and use them to serve others.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” — 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)
Faithfulness Leads to Greater Opportunities
The servant with two and five talents made two and five more talents. God rewards His faithful stewards with more gifts, opportunities and responsibilities.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” — Luke 16:10 (NIV)
Neglecting Our Gifts has Consequences
The servant with one talent was so afraid that he hid his one talent, and his master was mad. Often, we let our fears, limiting beliefs and self-sabotaging ways – bury our abilities, responsibilities and opportunities. Then what little you have – it will be taken away from you!
“Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.” — 1 Timothy 4:14 (NIV)
My Invitation
This is my invitation to you today: reflect on the gifts God has entrusted you, and commit to actively steward them for His glory and the benefit of others.