In what ways can we apply the manager's foresight to our spiritual lives? Setting the Scene “Now Jesus was also saying to the disciples, ‘There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought against this man that he was squandering his possessions.’” (Luke 16:1) The story opens with a steward caught wasting his master’s goods. Knowing dismissal is certain, he swiftly devises a plan to secure his future. Though his methods were crooked, his foresight is held up by Jesus as something His followers should emulate in a righteous way. Key Marks of the Manager’s Foresight • Awareness of a coming day of reckoning • Immediate, decisive action rather than delay • Wise use of present opportunities to influence the future • Priority placed on relationships that will matter later • Creativity in problem-solving under pressure Translating His Foresight into Faithful Living 1. Anticipate Accountability • “Each of us will give an account of himself to God.” (Romans 14:12) • Live daily with the certainty of the judgment seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10). 2. Act Before It’s Too Late • “Look carefully then how you walk… making the most of the time.” (Ephesians 5:15-16) • Repent quickly, obey promptly, forgive readily—delay erodes opportunity. 3. Invest Earthly Resources for Eternal Return • “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:20) • Channel money, talents, and time into gospel work, mercy ministry, disciple-making. 4. Build Kingdom Relationships • The steward made friends; believers cultivate bonds that point others to Christ. • “Use worldly wealth to make friends for yourselves, so that when it runs out, they will welcome you into eternal dwellings.” (Luke 16:9) 5. Practice Holy Ingenuity • Think creatively about evangelism, hospitality, and service. • Proverbs 27:12 praises prudent foresight; prayerful planning honors God. Supporting Scripture Snapshots • Hebrews 9:27—certainty of death and judgment. • 1 Timothy 6:18-19—generosity stores up “a good foundation for the future.” • Proverbs 6:6-8— the ant’s foresight commended. • John 9:4—“We must do the works of Him who sent Me while it is day.” Daily Foresight Checklist □ Begin each morning remembering eternity. □ Identify one concrete act of obedience to complete today. □ Review finances and schedule with heaven’s ledger in view. □ Seek one person to encourage toward Christ. □ Close the day asking, “Did I spend today as though I will answer to Jesus tonight?” Believers who mirror the manager’s foresight—yet with honesty and love—turn temporal moments into everlasting gain, proving themselves truly wise stewards of the Master. |
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