―For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away. Throw out the worthless slave into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.‖ Matthew 25:29-30 NASB95

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You know the story in Matthew 25:14-30. Talents were given to three individuals by their Master. The Master left and then returned. One servant was given 5 talents and gained 5. Another was given 2 talents and gained 2. The last one was given 1 and buried it and then returned it to the Master.

The Master told the first two, ―Well done! Enter into joy…‖ But the focus of the story goes to the last one. The 1 talent servant said – "I WAS AFRAID." (Matt. 25:25) Afraid of what? (1) Afraid to act. (2) Afraid to invest. (3) Afraid to trust. (4) Afraid to accept Christ and be a solid Christian. The Master said to the 1 talent servant – "Wicked, slothful servant. Be cast into outer darkness." Now he had cause to be afraid.

The story shows that we each have different talents, but all have talents. God expects a return on that which belongs to Him. Stewardship teaches us that everything belongs to Him. He requires us to cultivate our powers and attain the highest possible capacity for usefulness in His Kingdom.

Appeal: Our offering today is for World Budget with a special focus on the Fall Mission Offering to provide funding for important outreach programs.