Wasting
Jesus told this story to his disciples: “There was a certain rich man who had a manager handling his affairs. One day a report came that the manager was wasting his employer’s money.”
Luke 16:1 (NLT)
Jesus warns us with this parable about the danger of wasting what has been entrusted to us. Every resource that God places in our hands—time, talents, strength, words, and even the anointing of the Spirit—must be managed with faithfulness and purpose. Waste not only brings loss but also sorrow and consequences that distance us from the fullness God desires for us.
- Do not waste God’s anointing
The anointing is a spiritual treasure that must not be used for selfish purposes, but to serve the Lord and edify His church. It is a privilege that demands care and reverence. - Do not waste time
Time is one of the most valuable resources. Each day is an opportunity to live with purpose. When we use it for vain things, we lose the chance to glorify God with our lives. - Do not waste strength
Life has seasons of vigor and weakness. In the years of greater energy, we must invest our strength in what truly matters: serving God, loving our family, and blessing people. - Do not waste words
Words have the power to build up or destroy. Speaking with purpose means using our mouths to bless, encourage, and proclaim the truth. We must not waste our voices in foolish arguments or in criticism that does not edify. - Invest in the eternal
The opposite of waste is investment. When we sow our lives, time, and words into the Kingdom, we are investing in the eternal. That investment will always bear fruit and bring joy.
The Lord calls us to be faithful stewards. May every resource He gives us be used wisely, with gratitude and purpose, so that our lives may have an eternal impact.
Jesus told this story to his disciples: “There was a certain rich man who had a manager handling his affairs. One day a report came that the manager was wasting his employer’s money.”
Luke 16:1 (NLT)
Think About It:
- In what areas of your life might you be wasting the resources God has given you?
- How can you redirect your time and strength toward what truly glorifies the Lord?
- What practical changes can you make in the way you speak so that your words become an instrument of blessing?