Faith That Steps Out

“A nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return” (Luke 19:12).

Jesus tells the parable of a nobleman who entrusted some of his servants with equal amounts of money to manage while he was away on a trip. Upon his return, the master asked for an accounting from the servants to evaluate how faithful each had been in his assignment.

The first servant reported that he had made some good investments and enjoyed a profit. “Lord, your mina had made ten minas more” (Luke 19:16). This servant was generously rewarded for his wise stewardship. Likewise, the second reported success and was rewarded accordingly. However, the third servant had played it safe because he feared his master, and he was harshly judged by the nobleman (see Luke 19:18-26).

This parable of Jesus illustrates two types of environments and two types of men. One type is building an environment of faith, as he believes God is moving in his midst and will do great things. But the other type represents a ministry of fear where the Lord is seen as a difficult taskmaster.

The man who walks in suspicion fears his gifts will not be acceptable to God. He is overly cautious and extremely conservative. Such a minister lives in fear and is always afraid of doing something wrong. He works hard to earn his Father’s love but does not have enough faith to step out. He preaches good sermons but has no vision.

You can choose which environment you wish to live in. The believer who lives in an environment of faith glorifies God no matter how dire his circumstances. He is filled with joy and praise to Jesus for his goodness because he knows his sins are washed away. On the other hand, it is sad to observe fearful Christians who are not free enough to totally trust their loving Father.

I encourage you to trust your Savior and accept the freedom he gives you. He wants you to live an abundant, overcoming life in him, and he invites you to run into that safe place of faith today!