What Are You Doing With What You’ve Been Given?

One of the most sobering and motivating parables Jesus shared was the story of the servants and the talents in Matthew 25:14–30. If you’ve read it before, you know it’s not just about money. It’s about stewardship, purpose, accountability, and what we do with what God has entrusted to us.

In the parable, a master goes on a journey and gives three of his servants different amounts of talents (a form of currency). To one, he gave five. To another, two. And to the last, one each according to their ability. The first two put their talents to work and doubled what they were given. But the third one… he buried his talent in the ground.

When the master returned, he praised the two who multiplied their gifts with the words we all long to hear: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” But to the one who hid his, he responded with disappointment and removed even the little he had.

Whew. Talk about conviction.

This parable isn’t just a story. It’s a heart check. A personal one for me. As I sat with this scripture, I couldn’t help but reflect on the areas in my own life where I’ve buried what God has given me. And if I’m being honest… this post convicted me deeply.

Because the truth is. I know I haven’t been maximizing all that God has placed in my hands. I’ve allowed fear, perfectionism, past hurts in ministry, and the weight of life to hold me back from fully walking in everything He’s entrusted to me. And that realization? It hit hard.

But conviction is a gift. It’s God’s loving way of calling us higher.

Maybe you’re feeling the same way reading this. Maybe you know there are gifts you’ve been sitting on, ideas you’ve shelved, or passions you’ve downplayed. Maybe, like me, you know God has given you more, and it’s time to stop hiding behind excuses and start moving in faith.

Because this isn’t about perfection. It’s about obedience. It’s about faithfulness. It’s about honoring the Giver by using the gift.

So today, I’m asking myself and I’m asking you:

• Am I being faithful with what God has given me?
• What have I been too afraid to start?
• Where have I buried my gifts when I should be multiplying them?
• What’s one bold step I can take today to walk in what He’s called me to?

The good news is that if you’re still breathing, it’s not too late. We serve a God who redeems time and restores purpose. So, whether He gave you five talents or one, use what you have. Steward it well. Multiply it. Not for applause, not for validation for His glory.

Because at the end of the day, when we stand before God, I don’t want to say I wasted what He gave me. I want to hear those beautiful words: “Well done.”

Let’s Pray:

Father, thank You for entrusting us with purpose, with gifts, with dreams, and vision. We repent for every time we’ve buried what You placed in our hands out of fear or uncertainty. Help us to be a faithful steward, to trust You more than we trust our doubts, and to boldly move in obedience. Awaken every dormant gift in us. Remind us that You’ve already given us everything we need to do what You’ve called us to do. Let our lives be a reflection of Your goodness and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Here’s to doing more with what He’s given us.

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