Devotional Thought

In Matthew 25, Jesus shares a parable about a master who entrusts his servants with different amounts of wealth before leaving on a journey. Upon his return, he evaluates what they have done with what they were given. The first two servants invest and multiply their master's wealth, while the third buries his talent and does nothing with it.

This parable speaks to the reality of Jesus' eventual return and the responsibility we have as His followers to steward well the gifts, talents, and resources He has entrusted to us.

Jesus' final words in this passage, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” show that He is not merely looking for results, but for faithfulness. The first two servants were commended not just because they gained more but because they acted with the right heart—they recognized that what they had belonged to their master and they sought to use it wisely.

The third servant, however, let fear and selfishness control his actions. Instead of investing what was given, he hid it, believing his master to be harsh. His view of the master led him to inaction, revealing his lack of true relationship and trust.

This parable challenges us to examine our own lives: Are we using what God has given us to further His Kingdom? Are we living with an awareness that everything we have belongs to Him? Are we letting fear keep us from stepping out in faith?

Jesus is coming back. Ready or not, we will all give an account of how we have used what He has given us. May we be found faithful, investing in His Kingdom with confidence, joy, and trust in our Master.

Discussion Questions

1. What does this parable teach us about our role as stewards of God’s gifts?

2. In what ways do we sometimes act like the third servant, allowing fear, insecurity, or selfishness to keep us from using what God has given us?

3. The third servant’s view of the master influenced his actions. How does our understanding of God impact the way we live, serve, and give?

4. What are some specific gifts, abilities, or resources that God has entrusted to you? How can you intentionally use those to serve others and further God’s Kingdom?

5. What do you think Jesus meant when He said, “Well done, good and faithful servant”?

6. How does having an eternal perspective influence our priorities and decisions today?

7. Who in your life encourages you to use your God-given gifts wisely?

8. What is one step you can take this week to invest what God has given you for His glory?