Luke 16:10 – Faithful Responsibility

“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.” (Luke 16:10)

If there was such a thing as “faith scorecards,” then we’d all want to be recognized for the large faith opportunities we encounter. Jesus makes a bold observation here. Are there ever exceptions? It’s interesting that Jesus compares faithfulness and dishonesty in this example.

Context (Luke 16:1-18): Jesus was great at telling stories or parables to teach his audience. This verse falls right after Jesus’ Parable of the Shrewd Manager and right before Jesus tells us we can’t serve two masters, in particular, God and money. The lesson of the parable had been to use your worldly resources to “benefit others and make friends.” While the surrounding verses are somewhat connected, it seems our memory verse could also stand alone and not be involved in the money discussion.

Certainly, money could be one of those things we manipulate in a faithful or dishonest manner. Does this verse have a new meaning with that application? What other examples of being faithful and dishonest can you think of? Our relationships or work situations come to mind for me.

If you’ve ever been on the other end of a dishonest business transaction, you know how painful it can be. You can find yourself beating yourself up, wondering how you didn’t see the dishonest behavior in this person before. Regaining trust can be impossible after that.

Yet, you may also know the beauty of having a faithful spouse whom you can always count on. When they help you find your faith during a small crisis, you can be sure they are the ones you want in your corner when a big crisis tests your faith.

It’s interesting that Jesus uses this example. I wonder if there was a deeper meaning for us. It speaks about the importance of integrity and how that influences our character. Just like in the parable showing us the importance of being faithful with worldly treasure.

If this verse is talking about money, what does that say about our finances? Do we hoard our money away or invest it wisely? Jesus had another story about this. You can read the Parable of the Three Servants in Matthew 25:14-30. Each servant handled his master’s money. The one who made the money grow was wise for being faithful with the money.

If we find two examples in the Bible on a similar theme, we should pay attention. There is peace knowing how we should be acting as believers. Each clue we find in Scripture should be treasured. This is one of those verses that speaks such a loud message. How do you respond?

Let’s pray. Lord, I thank you for each good gift that you have entrusted to me. I pray for your wisdom to remain faithful and use each gift to its fullest potential. For each provision you give, God, may I be vigilant in using it for your purposes. Walk with me and show me your ways. In Jesus’ name. Amen.