What practical steps can you take to invest your "mina" for God's kingdom? The story behind the mina “Before he left, he called ten of his servants and gave them ten minas. ‘Conduct business with this until I return,’ he said.” (Luke 19:13) One mina in the first century equaled about three months’ wages—enough to be significant, yet small enough to carry in a single hand. Jesus’ point: every disciple receives something valuable to steward while awaiting His return. Recognize what your mina is • Time—every sunrise marks fresh opportunity (Ephesians 5:15–16). • Spiritual gifts—unique abilities given at conversion (1 Peter 4:10). • Skills and education—practical know-how earned through experience (Exodus 35:30-35). • Relationships—family, friends, co-workers, neighbors (1 Thessalonians 2:8). • Money and possessions—resources God entrusts to you (Proverbs 3:9). • The gospel message itself—“the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). Cultivate faithfulness in the ordinary “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2) • Start small—Jesus praised servants who multiplied little into more. • Set rhythms—consistent prayer, Scripture intake, and fellowship keep your heart aligned (Acts 2:42). • Track progress—journaling or budgeting helps you see growth and adjust wisely. Invest through Word-saturated prayer • Pray over specific Scriptures and people daily. • Intercede for unreached friends, missionaries, and church ministries. • Expect God to open doors you can later walk through (Colossians 4:2-3). Invest through your talents and skills • Offer professional abilities to serve the church or local charities: accounting, carpentry, teaching, graphic design. • Mentor younger believers in your trade, coupling practical instruction with spiritual encouragement (2 Timothy 2:2). • Create excellent work in the marketplace “as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23-24). Invest through relationships • Practice intentional hospitality—meals, game nights, open-door living (Romans 12:13). • Initiate regular one-to-one discipleship meetings. • Speak words that build up and give grace (Ephesians 4:29). • Share life, not just information—people need your presence as much as your knowledge. Invest through resources and finances • Tithe firstfruits to your local church (Malachi 3:10). • Support missionaries, church planters, crisis-pregnancy centers, homeless shelters. • Maintain margin—live below your means so you’re ready to meet needs quickly (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Use possessions strategically: loan a vehicle, host a Bible study in your home, donate tools. Invest through witness • Know the gospel clearly (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Build bridges with unbelievers—listen well, ask genuine questions. • Offer personal testimony of Christ’s work in your life (Mark 5:19). • Invite others to church, small groups, and service projects where they can observe believers in action. Guard against excuses and fear “I was afraid of you…so I hid your mina in a cloth.” (Luke 19:21) • Replace fear with faith—remember the Master’s character and promises. • Reject comparison—God judges you by faithfulness, not size of results. • Confess procrastination as sin; today is the day of stewardship. Keep eternity in view “For the Son of Man is going to come…then He will repay each person according to what he has done.” (Matthew 16:27) • Every act of investment echoes forever (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Increased responsibility and joy await loyal servants (Luke 19:17). • Fixing your eyes on that coming commendation fuels perseverance now. One mina. One life. One soon-returning King. Make every day count until you hear, “Well done, good servant!” |
    |