The Shrewd Move: Lessons in Resource Management

Jesus Christ was a master storyteller. He used parables like The Unjust Steward to teach His followers valuable lessons during His brief three-year ministry. One of these lessons was about managing money and possessions. He spoke this story with the Pharisees close by, providing insights relevant for all.

The parable begins with a wealthy CEO who had a chief operating officer (COO). Rumors of mismanagement surfaced, suggesting embezzlement. Alarmed, the CEO summoned the COO. “What’s this I’m hearing about you? I need a full report of your books. If what I heard is true, you’re out of a job,” he warned.

Facing termination, the COO panicked. "What am I going to do? I can’t do manual labor, and asking for handouts is out of the question,” he thought. In a moment of desperation, he devised a plan. “I need my clients' support. I’ll use my remaining authority to secure my future.”

The COO quickly called in major clients. To the first client, he asked, “How much do you owe?” The reply was, “Fifty thousand gallons of premium fuel.” The COO instructed him, “Cross out fifty thousand and write down twenty-five thousand.” To another client, he followed a similar tactic. When asked about his debt of a hundred tons of grain, he said, “Take your invoice and write down eighty tons.”

When the CEO learned of the COO’s actions, he surprisingly praised the dishonest man for his cleverness. Why? Because, in the business world, people often work tirelessly to secure their interests. They utilize every resource available to ensure their stability, sometimes without regard for ethics.

This brings up an interesting question: “Why do more people know about Coca-Cola than Jesus Christ? After all, He’s the real thing!” The truth is, Jesus intended for us to reflect on our priorities, especially concerning our earthly resources.

Jesus conveys a core message through this parable: We should strategically use our resources to foster relationships that yield eternal rewards. In this story, the term "mammon" is significant. This Aramaic word means "that in which one puts one's trust," specifically referring to wealth.

“Riches promise much and perform nothing. They excite hope and confidence and deceive both in making a man depend on them for happiness. They rob him of the salvation of God and of eternal glory.” – Adam Clarke

God owns everything but entrusts us with some resources. He wants to see how we manage them. When we demonstrate faithfulness, even in small things, we prepare for greater responsibilities. If we cannot manage what belongs to someone else, how can we expect to receive what is rightfully ours?

Jesus gets to the heart of the matter with the statement, “You can't serve two masters. You'll either end up hating one and loving the other, or you'll be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”

The Pharisees, obsessed with material wealth, scoffed at Jesus. Yet even their hardened hearts felt the sting of His words. Jesus challenged their pretenses, saying, "You’re experts at making yourselves look good to people, but God knows your hearts. What’s highly valued by humans is often detestable in God’s sight."

It’s crucial to make the right choice. Choose the shrewd and wise move with your resources. Reflect on how you can utilize what you have for a greater purpose. When we look beyond our immediate interests and prioritize our relationship with God, we will find true wealth.

In conclusion, the parable of the unjust steward serves as a striking reminder. It urges us to examine how we manage our resources and relationships. Life is short, and how we use our time, talents, and material wealth reflects our values. Strive to make choices that align with God’s teachings and build relationships that matter for eternity.

Let us be wise stewards, using what we have to glorify God and bless others, ensuring our future is secure in Him. We have the opportunity to influence those around us positively. As we reflect on these lessons, remember—our choices today echo in eternity.

Make the right choice. Choose the shrewd move.