A new thought struck me as I was reading the parable of the talents (Matthew 25), the one servant did nothing with what had been entrusted to him because he knew, he believed, the master to be a hard man, so out of fear he hid his talent then went on with life as usual.
The Bible doesn’t say what the other two servants impression of their master was. Did they know him to be hard, or merciful, full of grace, forgiving, kind? Did their view of the master allow them freedom to take a risk in doing something with what had been entrusted to them, not fearing potential failure? Did the fact the master trusted them to begin with encourage them to improve upon who they were or what they had? The parable also does not tell us if the two servants had all success or were their ups and downs, failures and slips, along the way to finally show an increase in the end.
What we do know is the third servant let fear stop him from doing anything with what he had, which led me to the question – what is my view or core belief of God, and does it affect what I do? The later part, does it affect what I do, I’m certain is a resounding yes. What is my core belief of God takes a little more in depth pondering, as I’m guessing it does for all of us at times, and we all need to do periodic internal checkups.
What do we let fear stop us from doing with what the Lord has given us? What talents, abilities, gifts, wisdom, etc… lay buried under fear or other excuses and reasons for doing nothing?
If our view of God is not of Him being a good Father we need to change our wrong thinking. I admire Apostle John’s view, he didn’t just love Jesus – he knew he was loved – by Jesus, he referred to himself as the one whom Jesus loved. Can we, without question, say we know we are loved by Jesus and the Father?
Knowing we are loved empowers us to step out. We have each been given something from the Lord that we are responsible to steward; it takes us from an ordinary life to an abundant life in Him. Let’s not despise small beginnings, as we steward well the one thing more will be added. Do we all not long to hear the words one day “Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” Matthew 25:23.
The joy of the Lord starts with our relationship and a right view of the Master. Is it time to change some of our thinking; to be about using what He has given us and open to see where it goes?
You wanting more; a higher level in Me? You do know there is a cost right? No it’s not financially – it’s sacrificially, what are you willing to give up in your pursuit? Mind wasting time; perhaps some pleasurable pursuits? Maybe living a simpler life – not needing to keep up with the Joneses? Are you willing to take the time to sit at My feet getting to know Me; being teachable, humble, listening and following? As you seek My kingdom and righteousness first, then the more will come.
Character means a lot to Me, without good character there is a wider door of opportunity to stumble, to be brought down, to have a moral failure. Developing good character in private and public is essential, as is allowing Me to bring to light hidden secrets, heart wounds, and issues that need to be dealt with so that none is a hindrance or stumbling block. Living an overcoming life, a victorious life, is a great witness to those in darkness; it gives hope to the struggling, is a testimony of My goodness and desire for all to be healed [emotionally]and set free; it speaks of the good plans I have for My children.
Never underestimate what I am doing or will do – think bigger, think beyond your capability – consider mine. When I am in it all things are possible – invite Me into everything. If I am not in it, as I am not for it, you should forget it. Be visionary, one with heaven’s perspective; people tend to ask too small – for just enough, when I want to bless them abundantly more, so there is extra to bless others. I didn’t just give Joshua a few houses to overcome – I gave him all of Jericho. I didn’t just give the Israelites a few cities to dwell in, I gave them the whole Promise Land; but they needed vision and action to possess it. Where is your Vision? What are you asking for – is it just enough or the fullness of what I have for you?
Take heart, I will give you the strength you need for each day. Take your rest in Me, don’t be anxious – I will see you through. I never said there would not be trials, temptations, or attacks, but as your focus is on Me they will not overcome you.
Obedience is what I desire above sacrifices. I desire willing vessels ready at a moment’s notice to by My instrument, to speak My words, to take an action; ready minutemen. For individuals to be watchmen on the wall looking for what I am doing, ready to relay the information to those waiting and wanting to know, the ones who will take action.
Determination, it often determines the outcome of endeavors. Do you want to have a more intimate relationship with Me? Do you want to know My thoughts, ways, and word better? Do you want to …? It all takes determination to pursue what is required to get there and not settle for anything less. Determination to not give up and take the easy road that leads you elsewhere; often where you don’t want to be. Determination – go for it, get it, I’m worth the pursuit.
What are you looking for? What’s your desire? What’s your need? You won’t find co
As you begin your day turn your attention and focus on Me, invite Me into your world, your activities. Keep Me in mind as you go, tune an ear to the sound of My voice that I may give you wisdom and guidance. At the end of the day come back and spend time with Me, let’s talk the day over and have a heart to heart time.
Harken and listen to the sound of My calling. I am calling you forth out of obscurity, out of complacency. As your heart is set on Me see what I will do in you and the impact that will be on those around you; life will spring forth, hunger and desire will grow for Me once more.
Beyond the Silver Coin 