April 20, 2011
All the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen . . . —2 Corinthians 1:20
Jesus’ parable of the talents recorded in Matthew 25:14-30 was a warning that it is possible for us to misjudge our capacities. This parable has nothing to do with natural gifts and abilities, but relates to the gift of the Holy Spirit as He was first given at Pentecost. We must never measure our spiritual capacity on the basis of our education or our intellect; our capacity in spiritual things is measured on the basis of the promises of God. If we get less than God wants us to have, we will falsely accuse Him as the servant falsely accused his master when he said, “You expect more of me than you gave me the power to do. You demand too much of me, and I cannot stand true to you here where you have placed me.” When it is a question of God’s Almighty Spirit, never say, “I can’t.” Never allow the limitation of your own natural ability to enter into the matter. If we have received the Holy Spirit, God expects the work of the Holy Spirit to be exhibited in us.
The servant justified himself, while condemning his lord on every point, as if to say, “Your demand on me is way out of proportion to what you gave to me.” Have we been falsely accusing God by daring to worry after He has said, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you”? (Matthew 6:33). Worrying means exactly what this servant implied— “I know your intent is to leave me unprotected and vulnerable.” A person who is lazy in the natural realm is always critical, saying, “I haven’t had a decent chance,” and someone who is lazy in the spiritual realm is critical of God. Lazy people always strike out at others in an independent way.
Never forget that our capacity and capability in spiritual matters is measured by, and based on, the promises of God. Is God able to fulfill His promises? Our answer depends on whether or not we have received the Holy Spirit.
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Journal Entry for Today-JDV
April 20, 2011
This lesson really hit home this morning Lord; the thought that You have provided me all that I need to live a victorious life here on earth. This idea that all my needs are (already) addressed by You , regardless of what I can see, touch or sense brings me right back to the idea that I am to praise You at all times. When I do not feel close to You I am not to trust anything as fickle as my feelings, I am to take You at your word, and praise You for what You have provided and will provide….and more importantly I am to praise for who You are. For it is within this praise and worship that our intimate relationship manifests itself in my sense of well being.
And God says…”When you praise and worship Me, the Holy Spirit joins with you so that you are intimately connected with Me at the very highest level. Your faith, hope and joy are renewed and restored and as you worship, praise and pray, you will notice the peace that passes all understanding permeates your heart, mind and soul. Seek the kingdom of God through your worship and praise and then realize that I have met all your needs according to MY riches in heaven.”
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