February 7

Wise or Foolish

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalms 21:8-13 | Exodus 26:1-27:21 | Matthew 25:1-30 | Proverbs 8:1-11

Today’s Scripture Focus: Matthew 25:1-30

“The master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!”(Matthew 25:21 NIV).

We have two choices: live for the moment or live for eternity. The story of the wise and foolish virgins is an encouragement to always live our lives with the eternal in mind. The wise virgins planned ahead and entered into the wedding banquet. They got in on the celebration because they lived their lives in preparation for it.

The foolish virgins didn’t live with the big picture in mind. They were more focused on the immediate moment. When the moment for the wedding banquet came, they proved unprepared and missed out on the wedding celebration. To live focused only on the present moment is to miss out on all that could be ours in eternity.

The story of the talents reminds us that we will be called to account for the way we’ve used the resources we’ve been given. A life of faithful service will be rewarded in eternity with great reward and the “smile of the Father.” The one who is faithful with what they have been given will be put in charge of much more in the life to come.

This life is not all there is. It’s just the warm up act to life that goes on forever. We do well to always live in light of the eternal realities. What we do down here will make a difference as to how we live our life that goes on forever.

All Wise God, help me to live with eternity in mind. May I prove faithful with those things you have entrusted to my care—my talents and gifts, my resources, my time—that I might be rewarded with the joy of your smile when I one day stand before you and give an account. Amen.