Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
May 08, 2023: SOAP #4904: 2Samuel 15, 16; Psalm 32; Matthew 25

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew (NIV) 25:14 “Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his property to them. 15 To one he gave five talents of money, to another two talents, and to another one talent, each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received the five talents went at once and put his money to work and gained five more. 17 So also, the one with the two talents gained two more.  …   19 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them.  20 The man who had received the five talents brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five more.’ 21 “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. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 22 “The man with the two talents also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two talents; see, I have gained two more.’  23 “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. Come and share your master’s happiness!’

OBSERVATION:  The one returning with 4 talents received the same commendation as the one who returned with 10 talents.  One might think that returning with 10 talents would deserve a greater reward. 

The key, I believe is in verse 15:  the master gave “each according to his ability!  The master was not rewarding fruitfulness, but faithfulness! 

APPLICATION:  We often look at the outward, visible results of ministry.  We consider how great the ministry, or how large the congregation, or how big the building.   We must remember that God is looking beyond size or amount; He is also considering the faithfulness of the heart!   Fruitfulness is important to God.  Faithfulness will result in fruitfulness, but only God can correctly judge. 

PRAYER:   Holy Spirit, keep my motives pure.  Help me have a servant’s heart that is free from pride and comparison with others.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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