USE IT OR LOSE IT!

And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore, every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.  Matthew 3:9

REFERENCE
Matthew 3:4-10

It makes no sense to live life without any tangible impact or contribution. It is as absurd as a tree (which usually speaks of a man when it is mentioned in Scriptures) using up space and soil nutrients, but bearing no fruits. Such a tree will not be around for too long, for the husbandman shall soon chop it down.

In Luke 13:6-9, Jesus told a parable about a fig tree that had been planted for three years, but wasn’t bearing any fruits; so, the owner decided to cut it down. The truth is that that owner was justified in wanting to cut down the tree because it was using up the space that would have been used for a more productive venture. No sane businessman/woman will make an investment with the intention of incurring losses; investments are made so they can bring profit to the investor.

Likewise, God is a good businessman; and He has invested so much in your life so that you can bring profit to His Kingdom. He has ‘planted’ you in the soil of this earth, giving you various ‘nutrients’ to nourish and empower you. Some of the ‘nutrients’ you found in your ‘soil’ may have included a good education, traveling exposure, a good family background, knowing Jesus Christ early, a good job, etc. The question then is, seeing the ‘nutrients’ you have access to, what are you doing in your office, school, home, church, relationships, community, etc., to benefit the Kingdom of God?

Bear in mind that if you do not make use of the chances, privileges, graces, and gifts that God gives you to advance His cause and to impact lives in your generation, you stand the chance of losing them. God will not always suffer you to use up space…like our text says, “And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees…” A replacement may just be around the corner – hundreds of people will give anything to have some of the nutrients or opportunities you have in life. Therefore, choose to redeem the time, value your privileges, and make them count for God and humanity. That is the way you show God that His investment in your life is worth it!

PHOTO QUOTE

ADDITIONAL STUDY
John 15:2 & Matthew 25:14-29

TO DO

Reflect on how you are using the gifts, privileges, and opportunities which God has given you to benefit His Kingdom. What can you do differently? What more can you take on? Then prayerfully make adjustments where necessary.