No excuses - everyone is expected to be fruitful

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 29 2023 | Matthew 25:19-30

KEY VERSE:

Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest. Matthew 25:27 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

The master travelled for a long time and even though his return was not known, he eventually returned to a day of accountability. The servants who were left to do business with their talents were to appear before the master and account for their trading. Remember one servant received 5 talents, another received 2 and the last received 1 talent according to their abilities.

Our text implies that the master expected to settle accounts with all the servants he left behind and there was anticipation of all servants giving a good account. The first servant gave a good account of the 5 talents handed to him, and so did the second servant of the 2 talents given to him. The 3rd servant, however, came with excuses as to why he did not trade with the talent and why he could not be fruitful. Note that, he had to dig the ground before hiding the talent and even though that was also work, in this context it was negative and counter productive work. The master did not accept the excuses and the consequences of his laziness were meted out to him.

In recent times I have heard it being said, that “you must work hard and work smart.” And this statement resonates with us today to be efficient in our dealings with our gifts and talents, rather than just use energy without knowledge to produce no results.

FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE

God expects everyone to be fruitful and produce results from the gifts and talents He has given us. We are not expected to give excuses for why we cannot be fruitful. No excuse will be accepted by the master and therefore let us get busy and get working.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, I desire to be fruitful with the talents you gave me. Teach me to be diligent as I depend on the Holy Spirit for guidance and direction. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSINGS. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! ______________________________

DAILY word study: DEPOSIT

The word "deposit" in this verse is translated from the Greek word "βαλλάντιον" (ballantion). This Greek noun refers to a purse, pouch, or bag used for holding and safeguarding valuable items or money.

The term "deposit" underscores the concept of stewardship and responsibility. In the context of the parable, it signifies more than just safeguarding resources; it symbolizes actively engaging with the resources to generate growth and increase.

This parable challenges us to consider how we are managing the resources God has given us. Are we fearfully hiding them away, or are we using them wisely and responsibly to generate impact and growth? The suggestion of depositing with the bankers reflects a call to be proactive, to seek opportunities for fruitful use, and to generate positive outcomes.

Reflections How can you actively "deposit" the resources, talents, and opportunities that God has given you to generate growth and impact for His kingdom? What steps can you take to overcome fear and ensure that you are using your gifts wisely and responsibly?