Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
November 26, 2023: SOAP #510.: Matthew 23-25

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew (NIV) 23:14 “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….
20 The man who had received the five talents brought the other five… 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….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:  Note that the one returning with 4 talents received the same commendation from the master as the one returning with 10.  As I wondered why, I was led back to verse 15: they were given talents “each according to his ability!” Then I understood that they were not being rewarded for fruitfulness, but for faithfulness!  (Faithfulness does result in fruitfulness, but God rewards the faithful.) 

APPLICATION:  How foolish it is to compare my accomplishments to those of others.  God is looking for faithfulness.  They may have been given more talents, or fewer than were given to me.  Their talents may be in different skills than mine.  What is important: am I making the most of every opportunity the Lord has brought to me?  Will I be faithful today to allow the Holy Spirit to flow through me today? 

PRAYER:  Lord, Jesus, there has never been a servant as faithful as you.  Work your faithfulness into my character.  Be your assignment large or small, I want you to find me faithful.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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