I Knew You to be a Harsh Man…

Daily Reflection: Matthew 25:24-25 - 11/19/2023

Then the one who had received the one talent also came forward, saying, 'Master, I knew that you were a harsh man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter seed; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.' — Matthew 25:24-25

A.W. Tozer said, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” Some disagree, and suggest that God’s thoughts about us are the most important thing; nevertheless, our thoughts about God inform what we do.

In the parable of the talents, the last servant was limited by his beliefs, “I knew you were a harsh man…” This belief led him to act with fear and caution, “so… I went and hid your talent in the ground.”

We don’t know what the other 2 servants believed about their master but, whatever it was, it set them free to put the talents to work. Where the one saw harshness, perhaps the two saw an appreciation for hard work, diligence, innovation, whatever.

See, it’s possible to deduce beliefs by paying attention to one’s behavior. This is pivotal to understand in our Western context, where we think professions — important as they are — are a sign of belief. Rather, we should pay attention to what we do, especially what we do reflexively. That will show us what we believe about God.

This discovery shouldn’t be an occasion for guilt and self-condemnation; instead, let it be an opportunity for growth as disciples. Perhaps this parable could’ve ended differently. The fearful one could’ve said to the other two, “How is it that you’re investing the master’s talents so boldly?” Or, maybe the other two could’ve said to the one, “So, what’re you doing with your talent? Last we saw you were putting a shovel back in the shed.”

In either situation an opportunity for repentance — change of mind — that lead to different behavior could’ve been possible. And it can be possible for anyone who will invite the Spirit to analyze their actions and expose their limiting thoughts about God.

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! — from Psalm‬ ‭139‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭ESV‬‬

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