I am often convicted and sometimes confused when I read the parable that Jesus told about the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. But here's what I understand when I read it:
1. I am a steward and not the Master. 2. The Master has expectations. 3. I will give an account to the Master. So when I take time to reflect upon my life I try to ask myself some tough questions, and here are some of the ones I ask in terms of my stewardship of time, talent, temple and treasure. I call them my T4 questions. Perhaps they will help you. Time: Time is limited We all have the same amount of time each day We have various demands and expectations placed upon us We have the ability to determine how we spend or invest our lives. Questions Am I working the appropriate # of hours? Is God getting my BEST time? Am I working in my strength areas Am I managing my energy for my most demanding tasks? Am I bringing my best to the table? Talent: Questions How are you using your gifts to make an impact for the Kingdom of God? Am I exhibiting the heart of a servant? Who can I secretly serve? Temple: Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. How we care for our bodies is a reflection of our values. Your physical fitness influences your spiritual impact. Physical How do I feel physically? Am I stronger? Am I energized? Am I eating properly? Am I delaying any doctor’s appointments? Am I taking my vitamins? Are you placing harmful, dangerous, life-taking things into your body? Do you take care to rest appropriately? (Sabbath) Are you physically fit for your age? Relationally: Am I handling crisis at home? Am I handling pressure at work? Am I procrastinating a confrontation? Am I connecting with extended family? Who is giving me energy and who is draining my energy? To whom am I giving energy or draining energy? Is there someone I need to forgive or from whom I need to seek forgiveness? Intellectual Am I learning a new skill? Am I studying good theology? Am I reading good books? Am I listening to and having meaningful conversations with people smarter than I am? Treasure: For where your treasure is there your heart will be also. Your heart will follow your treasure! If you want (heart and mind) to love God fully, you place your treasure there! Questions Am I living on budget? Am I maintaining my possessions? Am I giving generously? And here's one more tough question: "Do you like who you are becoming?" Photo courtesy of Laura Humbles
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