Theme: Faithfulness

The Lenten Season

Theme: Faithfulness

By Rev. Dr. Emmanuel E James

Read: Matt. 25:14-30

It has been said, God does not ask us to be successful but to be faithful.”  It is a great thing to be faithful. It is appreciated by people as well as God. In the Parable of the Talents (Matt 25:14-30) Christ's faithful servants acknowledge with thankfulness what the Lord had given them. They had kept a correct account of what they received from God. We too should remember what we have received, that we may know what is expected from us, and may render account when called for. “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful” (1 Cor 4:2). We must remember God's favor to us, of the honour he has put upon us in entrusting us with His gifts and talents. The more we do for God, the more we are indebted to him for making use of us, and enabling us, for his service.

They produced the evidence of their faithfulness, of what they had gained. As God's good stewards we should have something to show for our diligence. “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom” (James 3:13-14). We see that two of them gave their account cheerfully. God sees our faithfulness not our usefulness, our sincerity not our success; according to the uprightness of our hearts, not according to the degree of our opportunities. The one unfaithful servant was punished.

The Lord accepted their account and commended them: “Well done, good and faithful servant”. Note that God will own and honor those who own and honor Him now. All their work and labor of love is rewarded. The joy of the Lord is the joy which He Himself has purchased and provided for us. The joy of the redeemed bought with the suffering and sorrow of our Redeemer. It is the joy of which He Himself is the fountain and center. It is the joy of our Lord Who is our exceeding joy. Glorified saints shall enter into this joy, shall have a full and complete possession of it. God has promised reward to us at His appointed time.  “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Rev 2:10).

What an encouragement to us? What an incentive for us? Let us examine ourselves and see how faithful we have been to our Lord in all the things He has entrusted to us. One day we are going to give an account for it and will be commended and rewarded.

Prayer:

 Dear Lord Jesus, when I examine myself, I find that I have failed You. I have not been faithful. I am found wanting. I need Your help. Please have mercy upon me. Help me to be faithful to You and serve You willingly and courageously. In Jesus’ name, Amen.