Multiply Your Talents
By AARON GROSS
Manning Campus Pastor
In Matthew 25, Jesus tells a story of a Master who gave out talents (coins) to his servants. Each was given a different amount according to their ability. They were entrusted with this special gift from their Master to use, share, and invest.
Two of the servants invested and doubled their talents. One servant found himself in a place of fear and buried the talent—to not lose it. This Master was pleased with the two servants who multiplied their talents, but not the servant who buried his. The Master took his talent away and gave it to someone who would make better use of it.
We, too, are asked to further God’s Kingdom by using what he has given us. One of the greatest joys in my life has been the reward of seeing God use what I have given back.
The other day, I had a junior high school student say to me that they bring no worth to this world. My response: You are valuable to God. God sees you and you are wonderfully made.
“Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.” Matthew 25:23 (ESV)
We, each, are valuable to God, and we, each, have much to offer. It may just be in different ways. It may be the time you offer to others, your skills and knowledge, or it may be financially. For some, it may even be the ultimate sacrifice. At the core of giving, is selflessness. We see Jesus embody this posture in his life and his ministry. Ultimately, he gave his life, so that we may be restored in our relationship with the Father.
This Memorial Day, I am reminded of those who have gone before us and given their lives for our freedom. They gave with purpose. They sacrificed their safety. Their comfort. And some their own lives. “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 (ESV)
Reflect
- What talents, resources, abilities, and blessings has God placed in your hands? How might you give back to the Master?
- In what ways have you buried the gifts that God has given you?
- Did you miss The Cross, God As Light; God As Fire?, Who Will Sit With Me?, Sing, or Celebrate The Faith Of The Next Generation? Take a few minutes to read the latest Two Big Questions devotionals.
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