How is the Parable of the Talents Relevant Today?
Reef tank and fish by Holly Chaffin
The fish tank was propped in the corner of my dentist’s office. Nervous and anxious about my appointment, I occupied my attention watching the tropical fish glide freely through the water. Golden, yellow, aqua and jet-black fish swam around the waving coral reefs. My stress began to melt away as I sat transfixed on the fish. That day, I made a decision to own such a tranquil fish tank.
Years later, I made my first attempt at fulfilling this dream. I took my children to the pet shop to pick out two goldfish each and a “sucker” fish to help keep the tank clean. We filled the tank with small brown pebbles, a fake tree and a large stone for the fish to swim through. We named our fish and each day watched them grow. But soon, one fish died. Then another. We were left with three fish. The kids lost interest in them, and as the fish began to grow, they lost all cuteness. Cleaning the tank became a chore. My dream died. I was not sad when the remaining fish caught some weird disease and all of them died within a week of each other.
Years later, I was willing to try again. I explained to my daughter that she may have a small fish. She convinced me to let her have three small fish. I agreed, on the basis that she was to feed them and clean the bowl. She was old enough to take on the responsibility.
But not a day after we had “Calvin”, “Susie” and “Susannah” did she pine for more fish. She asked for tropical fish. She wanted a large floor tank – one that required an air filter, regular cleanings and a temperature monitor. My response? “You must first prove yourself with taking care of these small fish before I’ll consider this idea.”
As I said these words to my daughter, the Holy Spirit nudged my spirit and reminded me that this is what God expects of me.
When I ask Him about His will in my life, and ask for more or different work, He responds the same.
I must first prove that I can handle what He gives me before He’ll give me more.(Tweet this)
Just like the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25, where two men invest their talents wisely and are rewarded. “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.’” God waits for us to ready ourselves and will not give us more than we can handle at any one time.
The man who had received the five talents went at once and put his money to work and gained five more (Matthew 25:16 NIV).
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This blog is an example of the devotionals you can read in my e-book, Where Family Meets Faith. To receive your own free copy, sign up for my inspirational newsletter here:
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