April 24

In the parable of the Talents, Jesus said the Master was clearly happy with the two servants who had been faithful in managing what he had entrusted to them. Though the size of the talents given them was different, each had multiplied the original amount. And the Master commended them both. “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities” (Matthew 25:21, 23). In another place Jesus said, “Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won’t be faithful in large ones” (Luke 16:10). Because Jesus was obedient to His heavenly Father in every way, God raised him up and gave him a name that is above every name. Our attitude should be like that of Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5-11).
David is a good example of what happens when we are faithful with the talents, the respons-ibilities, and the opportunities God has given us. David did all that God required of him, just like Jesus did, and God elevated him accordingly. In fact, God promised, “And now I will make your name famous throughout the earth” (II Samuel 7:9; I Chronicles 17:8). “The Lord gave David victory wherever he went” (II Sam.8:6; I Chron.18:6). And David recognized that his wealth, his fame, and his good fortune were all blessings from God. And while David was not sure why God had been so good to him (II Sam.7:18-21; I Chron.17:16-19), he is a good example of the truth that God humbles those who are proud and God elevates those who are humble (Matthew 23:12; Luke 14:11; 18:14). Because David concentrated on doing the right thing, God blessed him. Had David been primarily concerned with gaining riches and fame, God most certainly would have humbled him. Is there a lesson in David’s life and in Jesus’ life that we might learn from? What is our priority in life? Whom are we seeking to elevate? Ourselves? Or, God? The One who sees our heart is the same One who knows how to either punish or reward accordingly.