"Faithful In A Very Little"

by J. Taylor, Crowborough | Category: General | Apr 1982

Whatever the interpretation of the first part of Luke 16, at least verse 10 is easily understood: "He that is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much". We see from this that the Lord takes account of what are to us, perhaps, the less important things in our service. We may feel that more spectacular service is of greater account than that which is not so evident to others, but we do well to remember, " 'My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,' saith the Lord" (Isa. 55:8). We are reminded too that in the parable of the talents, the one who was faithful in his use of the two talents received the same commendation as his fellow servant to whom five talents had been given and also faithfully used. The word of the Master to them both was, "Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will set thee over many things" (Matt. 25:14-30).

Many years ago, a man seeking a post as a gardener might be asked to do a piece of plain digging, for perhaps half an hour or so. From the way in which this seemingly menial task was carried out, it was possible to form a fair idea of the capabilities and temperament of the applicant. If the work was done willingly and satisfactorily, it was likely that more exacting tasks would be done with equal efficiency. Such a man would be engaged and given greater opportunities of service, like the man who was faithful with only two talents.

We learn from 1 Corinthians 12 that children of God are given different kinds of gifts. In verse 4 we read, "Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit", and in verse 7 we read, "But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit, to profit withal". Then follow details of the kind of gifts given. We may feel that we have none of the particular gifts mentioned here, and this may be so, but in verse 28 we find in the midst of those more evident gifts, one little word, "helps". How much that word can mean!

In the assemblies of God's people we indeed can be helps, even if only in a small way. May it be our aim in some little way to be a help in the service of our Lord and Master. In writing to the Colossians Paul says,

Work heartily, as unto the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that from the Lord ye shall receive the inheritance: ye serve the Lord Christ (3:23, 24).

J. Taylor, Crowborough | Apr 1982
General