As I read the parable of the loaned money today in Matthew 25:14-30, it instantly reminded me of a discussion we had in class last night. In the parable, the master gives his slaves talents comparable with their abilities and then leaves on a journey. When he gets back, he wants to see what each has done with his talents.

The talents represent resources we are given by God. God gives us time, money, gifts, etc. according to our abilities and He expects us to use them in a wise way. We are responsible for using them and He will ask what we have done with them one day.

Last night we discussed sanctification - the process of living our lives in a way that pleases Christ. When we become Christians, we confess and repent of our sinful ways. Confessing is admitting but repenting is actually making a choice to not repeat those sins again. Sanctification is that process. Now, don't get me wrong, I realize that we cannot be perfect and their are certain sins that can come back over and over but as a Christian we must choose to work hard at resisting those temptations that allow our old self to enter in.

Through the life-long sanctification process, we should be bearing fruit in our lives. Others should be able to see a difference in the way you live your life after becoming a Christian. If your life has not changed since accepting Christ, then you have some serious considerations to make.

Although we are not saved by our works, the gift of the Holy Spirit upon acceptance of Christ, prompts Christians to serve just as Christ served. Due to the overwhelming thankfulness we have to God for forgiving our sins, and the desire for others to see Christ, we serve Christ by serving others. This can happen in many different ways but the questions are: How are you living your life as an example of Who you serve? and How are you serving?

Have a great day

Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie