Read: Luke 16:1-13
Reflection
The parable of the shrewd manager is one of Jesus’ most intriguing stories. In Luke 16:1-13, Jesus describes a manager who is about to be fired for mismanaging his master’s wealth. Knowing he will soon be out of a job, the manager calls in his master’s debtors and reduces their bills—hoping they’ll welcome him into their homes once he’s unemployed. Surprisingly, the master commends the manager—not for his dishonesty, but for his cleverness in preparing for the future.
At first glance, it’s a puzzling story. Why would Jesus hold up this shrewd manager as an example? The key is not in his questionable ethics, but in his resourcefulness and foresight. Jesus says, “For the sons of this world are more shrewd in their generation than the sons of light.” In other words, people who aren’t even trying to follow God sometimes show more urgency and creativity in handling their affairs than God’s own people do with what they’ve been given.
Jesus isn’t encouraging us to cheat or cut corners. Instead, He urges us to use the resources, opportunities, and influence entrusted to us in wise and purposeful ways. “Make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon,” He says, “that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home.” Our money, time, and talents are temporary, but how we use them can have eternal impact. The parable invites us to consider: are we using what we have now to invest in God’s kingdom and in relationships that matter most?
The story ends with a powerful reminder: “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much.” Faithfulness in small things reveals the true orientation of our hearts. Jesus warns that we cannot serve both God and money—each pulls us in different directions. The choice is clear, but it’s not always easy. Real wisdom means seeing our possessions as tools for God’s purposes, and living with an eternal perspective that shapes our daily decisions.
Personal Application
This parable challenges us to look honestly at how we manage what God has entrusted to us. Are we strategic with our time, finances, and relationships, or do we take them for granted? The shrewd manager acted decisively when faced with losing his position. In the same way, Jesus calls us to be intentional and purposeful with our resources—not out of fear, but out of a desire to honor God and bless others.
Practically, that might mean setting aside time each week to serve someone in need, budgeting with generosity in mind, or investing in friendships that encourage faith. It may mean letting go of the idea that what we have is ours to keep, and instead seeing ourselves as stewards—people entrusted with gifts for a greater purpose. The parable also reminds us not to underestimate the significance of small acts of faithfulness. God sees and values every choice made for His glory, no matter how ordinary it may seem.
Above all, this story invites us to ask: what are we living for, and who are we serving? True freedom and joy come not from clinging to possessions, but from aligning our lives with God’s values and investing in things that will last long after our jobs, bank accounts, or earthly homes have faded away.
Thought-Provoking Questions
- How am I using the resources God has given me—time, money, skills, relationships—to invest in His kingdom and bless others?
- Are there areas where I am tempted to be careless or wasteful, rather than a wise and faithful steward?
- What practical steps can I take this week to be more intentional and generous with what I have?
- How does remembering that I am a steward, not an owner, change the way I view my responsibilities and opportunities?
Prayer
Gracious God, thank You for trusting me with so many gifts and opportunities. Forgive me for the times I have used them carelessly or for my own gain. Give me wisdom to see my resources as tools for Your kingdom, and courage to use them in ways that honor You. Teach me to be faithful in both small and big things, and help me to invest in relationships and acts of service that have eternal value. May my life reflect the wisdom and generosity of Jesus, and may I always remember that everything I have belongs to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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