ENTRUSTED OR DISGUSTED? By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2, KJV)
----Introduction
The question posed today is one of eternal significance: are you living as someone entrusted by God or as someone who brings Him disgust? God has endowed each of us with treasures—gifts, talents, and opportunities—to use according to His will. Yet, some squander these treasures, failing to recognize their divine purpose. This teaching examines the attitudes and actions that distinguish the faithful steward from the unfaithful one and calls us to live in complete trust and obedience to God.
----God’s Expectation of Faithfulness
God entrusts His people with treasures, expecting us to invest them as His Spirit directs. These treasures are not to be hoarded or wasted. When we neglect our divine responsibilities, we align ourselves with the lies of the devil, questioning God’s goodness and intentions.
Key Scripture: “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” (Luke 12:48, KJV)
Faithfulness requires trust in God’s character. Those who doubt His intentions risk becoming “bitter quitters” instead of “rejoicing refugees” who find their strength and refuge in Him. God’s goodness is evident in every provision He makes for His people, and He calls us to steward His gifts in faith and obedience.
----The Danger of Believing Lies
When Eve believed the serpent’s lies in the Garden of Eden, humanity was plunged into sin and separation from God. Similarly, when we believe the enemy’s lies about God’s character, we fail to trust Him and misuse the treasures He entrusts to us. Doubt, fear, and unbelief are tools of the enemy that lead to spiritual ruin.
Key Scripture: “Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?” (Genesis 3:1, KJV)
God desires our absolute trust and obedience. When we invest His gifts as directed by His Spirit, we demonstrate our faithfulness and align ourselves with His purposes. Conversely, when we act out of pride and self-reliance, we grieve God and invite His judgment.
----Trusting in God’s Goodness
God’s plans for His people are always for their good. He does not withhold any blessing from those who walk uprightly before Him. Faith requires believing in His promises even when the future is unclear.
Key Scripture: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” (Jeremiah 29:11, KJV)
Trust in God allows us to live in peace and abundance. When we acknowledge Him as our life source, we gain confidence in His provision and guidance. This trust frees us from the pride and fear that lead to spiritual stagnation.
----The Consequences of Disobedience
Those who fail to steward God’s treasures according to His will face dire consequences. Like the unfaithful servant in Jesus’ parable, they risk losing everything entrusted to them.
Key Scripture: “Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.” (Matthew 25:28, KJV)
Disobedience stems from pride and a high opinion of one’s own understanding. Such attitudes are detestable to God and lead to spiritual poverty. In contrast, humility and faithfulness bring His favor and blessing.
----Summary
God entrusts us with treasures to use for His glory and purposes. Faithfulness requires trust in His character and obedience to His Spirit’s leading. Believing the lies of the enemy leads to spiritual ruin, while trust in God’s goodness results in peace, provision, and eternal reward.
----Conclusion
Are you living as someone entrusted by God or as someone who brings Him disgust? The choice is yours. Faithfulness begins with trust in God’s character and a willingness to follow His direction. Let us reject the lies of the enemy and embrace the abundant life God offers to those who are faithful stewards.
----Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged to trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Walk in faithfulness and humility, knowing that God’s plans for you are good and His provision is sufficient. As you steward His treasures, you will experience His blessings and find joy in His presence.
Key Scripture: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, KJV)
