Playing it safe is what the third servant thought was the right choice. But it wasn’t. There are many situations where playing it safe is the smarter option. When life or death decisions need to be made, it’s usually best to err on the side of caution. However, this story is showing us a different lesson.
The three servants have been given something of value from their master. From the start, the master could see and rate their abilities. He didn’t give them more than they could handle. Two of the three were able to use and multiply that which was given. The third chose to bury the treasure believing that was a safe bet. He was afraid of failure.
Do you see yourself in this story? We have all been given gifts from God to use as we see fit. God hopes that we will use them wisely to further the kingdom rather than for selfish gain. Some people will never use their gift to help others or even themselves. Fear sometimes holds us back. We need to realize that it is an unopened gift, an unrealized blessing, and many missed opportunities.
How do you think God feels when we don’t use the gifts he has given us? Does he get mad at us like the man in the story and take our gifts away and give them to someone else? Does he give us another chance?
Jesus’ story would suggest that our access to the kingdom of God is taken away if we are not faithful in using what God has entrusted to us. We miss out on so much more than just an opportunity to serve each other with our gifts. We miss out on a future with God in his kingdom. That future is too important for me to chance missing out. If God felt I was worthy of this gift, I want to use it to my best ability. I want my gratefulness to be a blessing to God.
Don’t we all long for the day when we hear the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” I know I want God to be pleased with my life and my choices. I have not always made the best choices. I know my reliance on Jesus and his saving grace is strong. Every day can be a struggle with all the noise surrounding us. We need to keep our eyes on the prize, focused on Jesus.
Are you going to play it safe or are you going to be all in for God and use the gifts he’s given you to multiply the kingdom?
Let’s pray. Lord, help me shut out the noise of the world that wants to distract me from you. Still my heart. Calm my fears so that I can move forward and boldly use the gifts you have given me. When I am feeling overwhelmed and insecure, remind me that I belong to you and you are equipping me. May I stay in your will and use the gifts you have given me to further your kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
