Are you faithfully stewarding the gifts and opportunities God has given you? In this week's episode, Eric delves into the Parable of the Talents found in Matthew 25. This parable teaches important lessons about stewardship, accountability, and faithfully using the gifts God has given us. In the parable, two servants doubled their talents through wise investment and were praised – but the servant who buried his talent out of fear was severely rebuked. God expects us to develop the abilities He's provided, and not let fear hold us back from His calling. New perspectives on an often-misunderstood parable await. If you want an encouraging challenge to better steward your God-given talents, listen to this episode! Share with a friend who needs to hear they don't have to live in fear.  Here are some topics from today’s discussion: Seeing ourselves as stewards, not owners  Making the most of our abilities, no matter how small Stepping out in faith instead of living in fear Accountability for gifts and opportunities   Episode Highlights: [09:05] God's Ownership, Our Stewardship Everything we possess, including our time, talents, treasures, body, reputation, resources, and relationships, are not truly ours but belong to God. We are merely the stewards, entrusted with these gifts. While it may seem like our hard work brought us these things, it is God who ultimately granted us the ability to earn them. Recognizing this fact shifts our perspective entirely. When we view everything through the lens of stewardship, it alters how we perceive and handle everything around us. The biblical concept of stewardship is a constant theme, reminding us that we are accountable for utilizing God's gifts responsibly and effectively. [17:31] Making the Most of Our Abilities, No Matter How Small Eric discusses the expectation of God for us to maximize the abilities and resources bestowed upon us, regardless of their perceived size. He highlights the parable where the master commends the servant on his faithfulness over a few talents. Eric underscores that in the grand scheme of God's creation, what we consider vast could still be minute. The essential takeaway is that being faithful with small things paves the way for increased responsibilities. We ought to cultivate the gifts and opportunities God has provided without drawing comparisons but instead, using our abilities for His divine intentions. [27:17] Stepping Out in Faith Instead of Living in Fear Eric highlights the parable of the servant who hid his talent out of fear, emphasizing that "fear of failure is no reason for inaction." He cites scriptures like Exodus 20:20, encouraging us not to be afraid as God's tests are meant to strengthen us. Eric urges his audience to act courageously and pursue any ambitious goal that God may have instilled in their hearts, despite any fears they might harbor. He asserts that living in fear is incongruous when God encourages us to take risks for His kingdom. The parable serves as a lesson that God values faith and action over fear-induced stagnation, reinforcing that we should not let fear hinder us from fulfilling our divine purpose. Resources Mentioned: www.stewardshipresources.com