July 26, 2010

Using Time Wisely

Luke 19:11-27

“He sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it.”
Luke 19:15

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Today’s passage shows us people with three different attitudes. First, those who reject Jesus. Second, those who hide what they have been given. Third, those who honor Jesus and put his gifts to good use.

God has given us spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7-11) and all kinds of other resources. He wants us to use them wisely. How should we then live?

A man received a phone call from his bank. “Someone is going to deposit $1,440 into your account. You must use it all today.” The man was confused, and the day passed while he wondered what to do with the money. The next morning, another phone call came. “$1,440 was deposited in your account today. The money that you did not spend yesterday was taken out. Use the money today.” The man was a bit uncertain, but spent the money as he pleased. The next morning, the phone rang again. “This morning, $1,440 was deposited into your account. You must use it all today.” The man used all the money. This happened every day. Then one day the man began to worry: “What if I don’t get the money today?”

What’s the lesson here? God gives us 24 hours—1,440 minutes—each day. We can choose how to use this time. But we must remember that our time can run out. There will come a day when we are called to account for how we have used the time and all the other resources God has given us.

Lord, thank you for this day, that we can know your will and live by it. Help us to live in a way that honors you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

About the author — Jang Ho Park

Jang Ho Park is a pastor in Tacoma, Washington. He and his wife, Jong Boon, have two sons.

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