The Parable of the Talents
In Matthew 24 and 25, Jesus tells the disciples about the future. In chapter 25, Jesus explains what it means to be prepared for His return and how to live until He comes. The story of the talents shows that it’s not how much we have, but how well we use what God has given us.
Read Matthew 24:14-30.
In this parable, the “talents” were sums of money divided between three servants, “each according to his ability.” As you read the parable, you will find out the servants who invested the money doubled its value. When the master returned, they received great rewards. In Matthew 24:23 the master replies, “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.” The third man in this parable chose to bury his talent and make no attempt to develop, improve or invest it.
The servant who buried his talent chose safety and security. In Matthew 24:25, he tells his master, “So I was afraid and went out and hid your talent in the ground.” Afraid? Maybe he was afraid of failing and looking bad. What about comparing himself with the two who received more talents and buried his out of intimidation? Maybe he was just plain lazy. Do these reasons, or should I say, excuses, sound familiar? They do to me, because I’ve been there.
So, what happened to the unfaithful servant? There’s a saying I’ve read before … “He who buries his talent is making a grave mistake.” Let’s just say, buried dreams are useless.
There are several lessons to this parable, but let’s relate it to our dreams and passions. As I mentioned above, it’s not how much talent we have, but how well we use what God has given us. For us, the talents represent any kind of resource we are given: time, gifts (talents), and opportunities, including financial. God expects us to use them wisely. Obviously, we don’t all have the same talents; we also don’t have the same dreams. It’s not the littleness or bigness of the dream but how we use it for the service of God.
The talents, abilities and dreams that have been given to us by our Creator are intended for us to discover, develop, improve and invest. Fear, comparison, intimidation and laziness are no excuse. God has entrusted us with these talents and promises to empower us to develop them. If you don’t know what your abilities and gifts are, or have buried a forgotten dream, ask God to reveal and show you what He wants you to do with them.
Happiness and success will be found in fulfilling His plan for your life.
Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart - Psalm 37:4