- Matthew 25:14 - For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his substance.
- Matthew 25:21 - His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
- 2 Peter 1:3 - According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue.
Being a good steward means receiving what God has given us and using it for His Kingdom. In the parable of the talents, we see that the master gives each servant a task to perform while he is away, providing them with the necessary resources. Upon his return, the master asked for an account of their work. Similarly, God has chosen us as His servants. He has prepared good works for us and provides the abilities needed to accomplish them. Some of these works are done alongside other believers—caring for people, making disciples, and serving others. Other tasks are uniquely tailored for each of us. The point of the parable was not the magnitude of the result, but the faithfulness of the servants. They trusted their master enough to use what he had given and strive to increase it. Good stewardship of what God has entrusted to us means investing in His Kingdom, not clinging to what seems safe and comfortable. The servant who hid his talent in the ground allowed fear to hinder his walk of faith. His rebuke is a warning for us to heed. Through Christ, we have been given everything necessary for life and godliness. With His help, we can confidently step into the ministry He has set before us. Our Lord, who gives us the opportunity and responsibility to serve, is not waiting to destroy or condemn us. He invites us to serve faithfully so that one day we might hear: 'Well done, good and faithful servant!'
Reflection
What talent or resource are you holding back out of a desire for 'safety,' and how can you use it for God's Kingdom instead?
