What “talents” has God given you? How are you using them to serve God and humanity? Here are excerpts from the chapter “Talents” in Christ’s Object Lessons.
Christ’s followers have been redeemed for service. Our Lord teaches that the true object of life is ministry. Christ Himself was a worker, and to all His followers He gives the law of service–service to God and to their fellow men. Here Christ has presented to the world a higher conception of life than they had ever known. By living to minister for others, man is brought into connection with Christ. The law of service becomes the connecting link which binds us to God and to our fellow men. (p. 326)
To His servants Christ commits “His goods”–something to be put to use for Him. He gives “to every man his work.” Each has his place in the eternal plan of heaven. (p. 326)
Not more surely is the place prepared for us in the heavenly mansions than is the special place designated on earth where we are to work for God. (p. 327)
None need lament that they have not received larger gifts; for He who has apportioned to every man is equally honored by the improvement of each trust, whether it be great or small. (p. 328)
The talents, however few, are to be put to use. The question that most concerns us is not, How much have I received? but, What am I doing with that which I have? The development of all our powers is the first duty we owe to God and to our fellow men. No one who is not growing daily in capability and usefulness is fulfilling the purpose of life (pp. 329-330)
True education is the preparation of the physical, mental and moral powers for the performance of every duty; it is the training of body, mind, and soul for divine service. (p. 330)
Reflection Questions
- What talents do I recognize God has given me? How am I developing and using these?
- When have I experienced connection with God and others while serving?
- How can I “develop my powers” today?
- In what ways have I seen God leading me in “true education” lately?
- Who needs my encouragement to develop their talents and to use them for serving others?
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