“And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’”Matthew 25:30 NKJV
Jesus tells a parable about servants making investments for their master. The story takes a turn when one of the servants decides he doesn’t want to make the investment because he feels he won’t get anything out of it. Ultimately, the master declares the servant is “unprofitable” (useless, good for nothing) and has him dismissed. I believe this master can teach us something valuable about our dealings with others.
1. People connected to us should be profitable. They should add value more than they take away. Providing support, encouragement, believing in your dreams should be standard. People in your circle should be building their lives and helping you build yours.
2. We need to evaluate the value of those connected to us. Basically, we need to know what value they bring, why it’s important to us, and be able to measure their effectiveness. Please note, these need to be real values, not superficial values.
3. Unprofitable people should be dismissed. You don’t have time to take on a “project person”. For example, trying to change an unprofitable boyfriend or girlfriend never works. Dismissing them brings you closer to the right person.
4. We need to be profitable also. When you encounter profitable people, don’t be a taker. Instead, find a way to add value to their lives just as they will add value to yours. People who are going somewhere, building their lives, and advancing their careers, are all looking to network and connect with profitable people. Be that person.
The master had it right. He chose valuable servants worthy of reward and removed those who were unprofitable. We should do the same.
Amen!. The worst thing is to be in a relationship or be around someone who don’t have your best interest and following your dream. You can do bad by yourself. You should always be around people who encourage you.
I am reminded of a rap lyric. “Crew look like we robbed a bank, but all we make is deposits
Your prophet will profit, oh God”. If your crew is making deposits in each other that leads to a wonderful life.
That’s so true. We all need people to mutually deposit in us as we do the same for them. The challenge is to know the social and professional currency that yields the greatest return on the investment.