Tag: kingdom

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What kind of servant are you?

In Matthew 25:14-30, we read the story of the Parable of the Talents. The kingdom of heaven is likened to a man who went on a long journey. Before he departed, he called 3 of his servants and entrusted to them his possessions (v14). The text does not specify that he told them what to do with it (and based on the 3rd servants response, which we will see later, we can assume this to be the case). But it is clear that the master intended the servants to work diligently during his absence. And he gave them the resources to do that work.

What does this story tell us about how we are to live and serve?

This story is symbolic of the gifts and talents that God gives us. Truth be told, everything we receive is from God (James 1:17; John 3:27). He gives us the abilities we have (i.e. gifts and talents), the resources we need (e.g. time or money) and has left us to determine what to do with those things (see Deuteronomy 8:18).
The master gave to each servant “according to his ability” (v15). This suggests that the master had previously observed their work habit and ethics in order to determine their abilities. Were they lazy, excuse prone or complained a lot? Or were they diligent and resourceful in getting their work done? Proverbs 20:11 declares that “even a child is known by his deeds” and Jesus said we will be known by the fruit we produce i.e. the way we act (Matthew 7:16).

Option 1: Apply our talents to God's glory.

The one with 5 talents went and traded with what he had received and doubled the money (100% return). The one with 2 also made a 100% return although it is not clear in what capacity he invested the money.

Truth be told, it doesn’t matter. There are myriad ways and industries for us to be creative in applying our gifts and talents. But the goal ought to be 100% return on the gifts God has given us. Anything less is not ideal. Remember, God already knows what we are capable of and has given us gifts accordingly. So we can’t give Him an excuse as to why we weren’t able to be productive with what He has given us.

Option 2: Bury our talents to our own shame.

The last servant dug a hole in the ground and buried his master’s talent. This may be a situation where you have a skill but instead of using it, you cover it up for whatever reason (in the case of the servant, he said it was because he feared his master).

Time to check the results.

After a long time, the master returned from his journey and settled accounts with them (v. 19). God will give us ample time to produce a result but He will show up eventually. We should be prepared to settle our accounts with Him at any time.
The reward for being faithful in little is being made ruler over many things (vv. 20-23). Conversely, if you can’t be faithful with the little, who will trust you with much? (Luke 16:10-12)
The “wicked and lazy servant” thought that giving back exactly what he had received was an acceptable result (vv. 24-27). But it is also telling his perspective and his motivation for what he did. He saw his master as a “hard man” and was afraid of him.
How we see God will impact our relationship positively or negatively.
If anyone should have been afraid, it’s the servant who got more talents not the one who got the least. We are considered wicked and lazy if we do not make the best out of the gifts and talents God has given us.
The talent of the 3rd servant was given to the first servant who had proven he would use it wisely (vv. 28-30). And the “unprofitable servant” was cast out of the master’s house.

Did You Know?

Unlike the master in this story, Jesus left specific instructions for His followers before He departed for heaven. We are to make disciples of all nations and teach them to observere all the things that He has commanded us. This is the great commission (Matthew 28:18-20).

What are you doing with your God given talents?

About BibleStorm

At BibleStorm, our mission is to illuminate hidden truth found in God’s Word (i.e. the bible). Our vision is to see people become more familiar with the bible, biblical themes and concepts and to develop a hunger/desire to learn more about God through His Word. We are doing our part to seek the kingdom of God and spread the good news of salvation through bible trivia. And to help people transform their minds through the living Word of God. Learn more about us.

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BibleStorm Trivia Card 2 Year Vision Anniversary

It’s been 2 years since I received the vision for BibleStorm (our visionversary :)). I thank God for trusting me with this vision and assignment. Entrepreneurship is not something I ever aspired to. And it’s been an interesting journey (to say the least) learning the ins and outs of starting a business and how the ecommerce world works.

I am grateful for every person God has placed in my path who has contributed to the success of this ministry in any way small or large.

So I just wanted to say “Thank You”:
  • For our customers who have purchased trivia card decks and also for those who have shared their positive feedback concerning the product.
  • For friends, family and others who have been a source of encouragement as well as financial support.
  • For co-laborers who have helped with graphics, video editing, marketing and many other aspects of the business for which I have limited to no expertise.
  • For our social media community that follows our work and shares it with their networks.

At BibleStorm, our mission is to illuminate hidden truths found in God’s Word (i.e. the bible). Our vision is to see people become more familiar with the bible, biblical themes and concepts and to develop a hunger/desire to learn more about God through His Word.

Here is to millions of people learning the truth of God’s Word through our trivia cards. Order your game cards today at our online store.

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