God as Taskmaster
Then the one who had received the one talent also came forward, saying, “Master, I knew that you were a harsh man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter seed; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours,” (Matthew 25:24-25 NRSV). Far too commonly we regard God as the man in the parable of the talents regarded his lord: “a harsh man.” Such a fearful person could not “enter into the joy of [his] master” because he could not open his life to his lord or enter into his lord’s life. He actually abused his lord by taking him to be interested only in his own gain, while the lord was interested in sharing his life and goods with others (Matthew 25:14-30 NRSV). In the same way we demean God by considering him a cosmic boss who orders humans around, notes their failures and takes pleasure in seeing them jump at his command. Instead we are to be God’s friends and fellow workers (2 Chronicles 20:7; John 15:13-15).”
—Dallas Willard,
Hearing God Through the Year
In the parable, fear distorted the servant’s view of the master, leading him to bury the very gift he was entrusted with. This passage reminds us how our view of God shapes the way we live. When we see Him as a harsh taskmaster, we become paralyzed by fear, hesitant to take risks or step into our calling. But Jesus came to reveal the Father’s heart—not as one who demands perfection, but as One who delights in our faithfulness, however small. God is not looking to catch you failing; He’s inviting you to trust Him, to step out with courage, and to use what He’s given you for His glory. When we understand that He is a loving Father—gracious, patient, and deeply invested in our growth—we are freed from fear and inspired to live boldly. It’s in that love, not fear, that you find both your confidence and your calling. How will you respond today? —DH
—David Hoskins, Founder & Care Guide, Sanctuary Clinics