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Then Joshua asked them, “How long are you going to wait before taking possession of the remaining land the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has given to you?” —Joshua 18:3
Joshua rebuked the seven tribes who had not yet asserted their victory over the Canaanites. Why? Like many of us, they were waiting for God, while in reality God was waiting for them! Joshua’s rebuke to the Israelites was that though God had already given them the land, they refused to pay the price to possess it.
Similarly, the lazy steward of Luke 19:20 demonstrated no initiative to become involved in the risky, dangerous world of investment. He simply took the money his master had given him and hid it away. Though he blamed his master for his lack of effort, the real fault lay with him.
God has given you certain talents and gifts, but He will never force you to use them. Yes, it will cost you something to use your talents, and you may even fail once or twice. You will have to practice, sacrifice, and learn, but you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13).
Step out of the boat and onto the water as Peter did. Your eternal reward depends upon your assertiveness, so stop being passive and go take a few cities!
Suggested Reading:
Joshua 16:1-18:28 Luke 19:1-27 Psalm 87:1-7 Proverbs 13:11