Talent Management

Jesus is coming back. We do not know when, but His return is certain and imminent.

Spending eternity with Jesus in itself will be our biggest blessing. But we have more to look forward to, apart from endless joy and pleasure. Jesus has promised to also reward us when He returns to earth.

Jesus’ parable of the bags of gold (or talents) clarifies how these rewards will be apportioned among His followers. A man entrusts his three servants with bags of gold before he leaves on a journey. Based on their abilities, he entrusts five bags to the first servant, two bags to the second, and one bag to the third. When he returns, he shows appreciation for the first two servants because they work hard and double their wealth. He applauds the servants and puts them in charge of more things. He is angry, however, with the third servant who buries his bag and does nothing to grow his wealth. His bag is taken away from him and given to the first servant.

Our talents and resources are God’s gifts to us. God knows exactly what and how much to give to each of us. In His great wisdom, He also orchestrates circumstances in our life so that we are given opportunities to not only put our gifts to use but also to hone and grow them. All to accomplish His plans for us and build His kingdom on earth.

It’s up to us to be diligent stewards of our abilities and wealth.

The urgency with which we pursue our calling and the excellence with which we manage our resources show how eager we are for Christ’s return, and how we long to hear Him say to us: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Respond

• What is your attitude towards Heavenly rewards? Do they motivate you to put your resources to use for God's kingdom?
• Which of your talents have you kept buried? How will you ask God for help to use it?