So, most church goers have heard the parable of the talents. Jesus tells the story of a wealthy businessman who entrusts his property to three of his servants. He divides out money (talents) according to their ability. Then, he leaves to go on his trip. It’s interesting to note that the time frame of his departure is omitted from the story. There is also no indication of him giving them any instruction. He simply entrusts them with his possessions.
To be honest, I’ve always struggled with this parable. Why did he give one of his servants only one talent? The Bible says that he gave them according to their abilities. So, does this mean he was only able to handle the one talent? Could it have been his lack of social media influence? Did he not have the right corporate job? Was this guy the office screw up, in whom giving even the smallest amount of one talent a huge risk? When I looked up the word ability in the Greek, it is the word dynamin which comes from the word dunamai. It means miraculous power, specialty, or force. Helps word studies further breaks down the word to mean properly, "ability to perform" (L-N); for the believer, power to achieve by applying the Lord's inherent abilities. "Power through God's ability". So, what if they were assigned talents based on their level of maturity in their relationship with God?
There’s Jacob (five talent guy), who is spending time in God’s word and praying daily. He’s walking with God and entrusting His wisdom on how to manage his five talents. The same with Toby (two talent guy). Both through investments and hard work double their talents. But what about Bob? He clearly struggles with fear. This paralyzing emotion kept him from allowing the “power to achieve by applying the LORD’S inherent abilities” to multiply his talent. Though it wasn’t expressly stated, this servant knew what his master expected of him. The Bible describes the master as “harvesting crops you didn’t plant and gathering crops you didn’t cultivate.” He’s a hard worker; one who makes money while he’s sleeping. Bob must have known that his master would want some form of return. But, he was afraid of loosing what he was given and thereby disappointed his master. He failed to see that it was God’s power that could enable his success in managing his master’s money. Instead, he let fear immobilize him and keep him from reaping the reward.
So, what is fear holding you back from accomplishing? God gives each of us talents (gifting, abilities). He wants us to impact the kingdom for Him. But, He doesn’t expect us to accomplish these things in our own strength. He’ll open doors and make provision for us. We must walk with Him and trust His leading. Instead of giving into fear, take the first step. Watch how God will multiply your talent.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 25:14-30
Please take time and read it in different versions and in the Greek to fully grasp it.
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