When reading the Parable of the Talents, it’s easy to applaud the first two servants for their wise investments and frown upon the third servant for the misuse of his gift. However, upon examining his motive, we can see that his actions are understandable—and even relatable.
In Matthew 25:24-25, the third servant explained, “Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.”
He buried what was entrusted to him because he was afraid. His motive was fear. He bought into fear because it was convenient (“…hid your talent in the ground”) and safe (“Here, you have what is yours”). But in reality, it cost him everything and delivered the toughest punishment (“…throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth” [v. 30]).
Where did this fear come from? The fault lies in the servant’s perception of the master. The Message paraphrase provides a detailed account of this viewpoint: “Master, I know you have high standards and hate careless ways, that you demand the best and make no allowances for error. I was afraid I might disappoint you, so I found a good hiding place and secured your money. Here it is, safe and sound down to the last cent’ (v. 24-25).
Oftentimes, we view God the same way. We don’t want to disappoint God, so we take on the day ourselves and play it safe. But just as the master gave one thousand talents to the fearful servant—the amount dependent on his work ethic (v. 15)—God still calls us in His love to partner with Him in building His Kingdom (1 Corinthians 3:9).
God is love, and with love, there is no room for fear. God’s perfect love casts out all fear because fear deals with punishment (1 John 4:18). And God is not quick to punish (Psalms 145:8). In fact, He sacrificed His Son so He won’t have to punish us, washing away our sins with Jesus’ sinless blood (1 Peter 2:24).
For the next few minutes, sit in a quiet place and close your eyes or write in a journal to reflect on your perception of God. Invite God to show you how it ties to any fears you have. Then surrender those fears to God and allow Him to wash you over in His perfect love—your new motive to use the skills, possessions, and opportunities He has entrusted to you for His Kingdom (Philippians 1:6).
Christina Chaiban
EFCC Attender