Hear or use the word “investment” and our thoughts will immediately turn to finances. But there are other kinds of investments.
I his poem Maud Miller, John Greenleaf Whittier wrote:
For all sad words of tongue and pen, the saddest are these: ‘It might have been.’
I suspect all of us have had moments when we have taken the time to look back and wondered what might have been if I had chosen differently or more wisely.
The Bible talks about taking advantage of opportunities which present themselves. “Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days…In the morning sow your seed, and at evening withhold not your hand, for you do not know which will prosper, this or that, or whether both alike will be good.” (Ecclesiastes 11:1,6)
In Ephesians 5:16 we are told “to make the best use of your time for the days are evil.”
“What might have been” is a sad refrain to hear or say. Unfortunately, the way we live our lives often lends itself to that phrase more often than not.
The parable of the talents found in Matthew 25:14-30 is one we are pretty familiar with. In this parable, a talent, in the narrow sense, is dealing with money. But in the broader sense it is referring to all which has been placed in our hands-time, talent, treasure- life in other words.
The real question, the real issue is simply “what are you doing with what you have been given?”
That really is a question each one of us must answer. That is the challenge I will be giving this Sunday.
That is a very good law question, Bill.
And the answers will vary, of course…but they should all reflect the fact that none of us have handled, or is handling their humanity very well.
The very first line (therefore) in Luther’s 95 Theses is;
“The entire life of the Christian is one of repentance.”
The bottom line is that while we are all very mixed bags, our Lord knows this about us and has set us free from the self-improvement project where He is concerned.
I reckon you can see it that way Stephen. It is still a valid question. Salvation is by grace through faith. But James (which Martin Luther didn’t like) also says “I will show you my faith by my works.” I do not believe works saves a person one iota but I do believe works will be an outgrowth of God’s work in my life. Hence, faithfulness to His work in and through me. I agree the answer will be different. it is to be expected since we are all different. We are also entrusted with different gifts to use. I am not advocating self-improvement at all.
Thanks, Bill.
The trouble is that when the law (what ‘we do’) becomes the focus, the person will either believe that he/she is doing ok (pride)…or is woefully lacking when others are faking it really well and then is subject to doubt and despair. “I know the preacher says that I ought be doing x, y and z…but I just don’t want to…or my heart is not in it.
What then? The gospel just goes out the window and all assurance goes along with it.
That is why Luther didn’t care for James much.
Methinks, anywho.
There is definitely a problem when we start comparing our works vs someone else. In fact, I would agree with you about the gospel going out the window when anyone, particularly a pastor, begins qualifying what is/is not the right works.
Brother, regrets rule my mind and suck the life out of me. There are a handful of moments where I feel convinced that if I went back to them and made a different choice, my life and joy would not have been taken from me. I know these thoughts are holding me hostage, but I just can’t seem to escape from them or their effects.
I am hoping you find release from those regrets Daniel. You are a good man and one tuned to the Spirit. Praying you find the joy & freedom He promises.
I used to be caught up in regrets, but then I realized that I am who I am because of everything that has occurred.
True but we can also be changed.
Sometimes it is very hard for us to recognize the “Talents” God has given us, and that in itself, is regrettable. However when we realize how He has gifted us, God will also show us ways we can use those talents for His glory and to further His kingdom.
Absolutely agree Pam. All we have been given is to further his glory and kingdom.
Actually, when I have read the title, the first thing I thought about was time. (Might’ve listened to too many sermons on this topic – hahaha).
Sam and I watched a movie “About Time” last night and it was pretty much about living life to the fullest, making most of the opportunities we get every day. Good movie (albeit for a couple of slightly questionable moments, but no nudity).
Time is definitely part of the investment we make Zee. All of life is to be brought under the cross-time, talent, riches.
I have certainly had moments at the poker table when I looked back and wish I had chosen differently. I don’t know about the people you hang with but I certainly don’t think “What might have been” is a phrase that describes the people I know more often than not.
🙂 on your reference to the table. I have also met many who never ask that question.
This saying was on the wall in my childhood home …
“Only one life will soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last.”
I believe wholeheartedly in embracing every moment and wringing the life out of it for Jesus’ sake.
Thanks for the reminder, Bill.
i remember that quote also Lyn. I first heard it at church camp. But it took me a long time to realize its life-changing import. You say it well. Thanks.
Great post Bill, we have to see that everything we do is an investment, either a good one or not so good. God calls us to invest our best to positively influence others to His kingdom!!! Loved this post
Well said Dan. Good or bad we are making an investment.
Great challenge Bill. One I will take to heart.