“The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly. For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light. I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.” Luke 16:8-9
Creating an economic structure around passion and purpose can be a prayerful and godly goal. It could be converting informal free advice into a formalized fee for coaching, consulting, or counseling. It may mean engaging a hobby of painting, writing, or singing and moving it into the market as a valued product. God gives gifts and skills to create a living. There are times to give away time and expertise, and times to monetize our mission.
Money is not our motivation, but it is a by-product of producing value around what wakes us up in the morning. Why waste our lives just working for a paycheck, when we can creatively come up with ways to channel our energies and experiences into an economic endeavor. Christ commends shrewd servants of His who innovate new ways to make friends and influence people. Indeed, we are called to be creative for Christ’s sake.
“So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.” His master replied, “You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.” Matthew 25:25-27
You are wise to work in your area of expertise, but avoid ruts that lead to complacency. Pray about how the Lord wants you to steward the relationships, opportunities, and gifts He has given you. Perhaps there is a small group of friends who will pray with you and even invest some seed money to eventually monetize God’s mission for your life. Truly, compared to eternity—life is a blink of an eye, so don’t hesitate on His direction.
Sad are servants of Jesus who remain in a scared state of inertia. Instead, follow by faith the sensitive promptings of the Holy Spirit in your heart. Do not allow your head to talk you out of following an unconventional course for your career. The world will watch with admiration a shrewd servant of the Lord, who, with an eye on eternity, invests in people on earth. Your life is attractive when you live out your mission with passion and productivity. Trust God to give you the wisdom to make a living from living for His call.
“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24
Prayer: Lord, how can I monetize my mission for the sake of your Kingdom?
Related Readings: Proverbs 22:29; Ephesians 2:10; 2 Corinthians 5:1; 1 Timothy 6:17-19
The author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional is Boyd Bailey. For more information, visit: Wisdomhunters.com
