I like the parables. As a teacher (and as a learner), I relate much more to storytelling than I do to lecturing. Give me all the elementary classes:) And Jesus often used stories – or parables – in order to teach. Not only do I grasp those lessons quicker but I remember them better as well. And the parable of the talents (found in Matthew 25:14-28) is one of my favorites! I immediately thought of it when I saw today’s FMF prompt: talent.
GO – In the parable, three servants are given different amounts of talents. They are expected to make good use of (to be good stewards with) their talents – no matter how many or how few – while their master is away. When the master returns, he rewards those who have been faithful. However, one servant does nothing with his one talent. He is not only held accountable for his laziness but is severally judged.
The talents in the parable refer to money. However, in much the same way, God has given each of us talents – unique gifts and abilities. And we are to be faithfully using those talents in order to please Him, to honor Him, and to point others to Christ. I may not have as many talents as some (I definitely do not). My one talent might not be as exciting or as charismatic (or as __________) as another one’s talent, but I am only accountable for what has been given to me.
You would think about my stage of life (um, my age), I would understand that truth; however, I am often unfaithful with the talent(s) He has entrusted to me. Just as guilty as the “wicked and slothful” servant. Comparison is one of the easiest tricks of the enemy that causes me to simply do nothing with my talent. It is not necessarily that I want more – or even different – talents but I way too often compare my talent to someone (anyone, everyone!) around me. I can (far too) quickly convince myself to simply bury my talent – like the unfaithful servant – and “not even bother.”
STOP – However, I sincerely want to hear the master say, “well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things…..enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” (Matthew 25:23) I want to be faithful. I want the joy that comes with being diligent to use what He has given me. Surely that applies to my abilities, as well as my time, my treasure….all of it. (But, I am already past my five minutes and that is an entire post more!)
Stop comparing. Stop doubting and stop overthinking…but simply get busy. Keep working, serving and being faithful. Using the talent you have been given.
Comparison gets me too! So often, I will look at what I have as small when I compare it to what someone else has. Once I compare, my motivation to do what I can do goes away. Just like you said, we are each accountable for what God has given US!
So glad I’m not the only one….falling for the comparison trap! Thanks for sharing. It is encouraging!!
This is a great reminder to use what God has given us instead of worrying about what other people are doing!
I needed the reminder myself today!! Thanks for stopping by, Lesley!
It is so easy to neglect
that which we are called to do
and in doing so reject
what God has placed in me and you.
We want to run the fastest race,
write a book to rock the world,
paint with awesome style and grace,
throw faster than Bob Feller hurled.
The Lord gives us what we need
to do the job He has in mind
and in our selfishness and greed,
we kick Him right in the behind,
but He’s thankfully a patient sort,
else our rebellion would be short.
Bob Feller was a pitcher for the Cleveland Indians from 1936 to 1956 (with a break for Navy service in WW2), and was famed for the speed of his fastball.
Thoughtful post. I like the idea of a FMF. Do you write these every Friday? I have always liked to draw but have found that when I haven’t drawn for a long time, it takes a while for me to draw fairly well again. Kind of like I have to knock the rust off. Brush the dust off before I can draw again. I want to be faithful to want meager talents I have been given. Going to try to draw a little this weekend! Thank you for making me think, reminding me to be grateful.
I am so glad you joined me for 10 on the 10th. I wondered if you would be interested in a bucket list or seasonal activity list I host? We are mid-way through our winter bucket/activity lists. But on 03.21.2020, we will reveal our spring lists. They can be as simple or complex as you like, but generally a list of fun things you would like to do during spring. If you are interested, send me an email (mommyhon333@hotmail.com) so I can add you to the email group for the graphic and link-up code!
Leslie
I do try to do the FMF each week. Occasionally I miss or post something different, but I do look forward to the weekly prompt. And yes, I am interested in the bucket list idea. I will check it out on your blog – and email you soon. Thanks for mentioning it!! I hope you have a wonderful Valentine’s Day with your sweetie…enjoy!!