This is the third in a series on Joy (see message 0812 - 0815). In today's message we see three men entrusted with their master's money while he was away.  Two of the three increased their master's money by using their personal talents, the third was lazy and did not.  Pastor Don points out that God has given all some sort of talent, and he expects you to use it for his kingdom.  For those who follow his command the reward is rich, from great experiences to potential eternal life.  God has a plan for you and your talent.  Do you want to be part of it?

Message Outline -

Introduction:

You were not born a winner - you were not born a loser. You were born to make choices.

Last May Marge, Jack O'Conner and I, - D.W.M Crow Creek
Tim said," I have never got up so early, worked so hard, made no money, But enjoyed myself more than I have this week."

Two chose to use their time, talent, and money for God.

One chose to not use his time, talent, and money for God.

Oswald Chambers wrote," It is not a call to serve God. Service is a natural part of a Christian life. As I said last week. Service is a natural part of a Christian’s life. It’s in our DNA we inherited it from Jesus, who said ‘He came to serve not to be served’.
Philippians 2:1-7

#I Two chose to serve God, one chose not to serve God.
    a. They started at once vs. 16. They didn't wait 'til they felt like it.
    b. Jerry West said, "If you only do things when you feel like it you will not accomplish much in this life."
    c. God said to Noah I have a plan do you want to be apart of My plan?
    d. God said to Joseph, "I have a plan do you want to be a part of My plan?
    e. God said to Joshua." I have a plan do you want to be a part of My plan.
    f. God says to you," I have a plan do you want to be part of My plan?"
    g. Acts 17:26

#II God has a purpose for your life and talents.
    a. We are not our own.
    b. Talent will also bring opportunities.
    c. If no opportunities maybe your talents not in that area.
    d. Wayne McDonald.
    e. Mud mixers in the DR.

#III They chose to be faithful verse 21-23
    a. Faithfulness is only proven by time. Vs. 19
    b. Faithfulness is a sign of maturity.

#IV They chose to receive the reward Vs. 21-23
  A.
    a. Now before I go on, what about the one talents person? Most of us have at least one talent. Vs. 18
    b. He chose not to be part of Gods plan.
    c. He chose to reject Gods purpose for his life.
    d. He chose to not use his time, talents, money for God. Vs. 26
    e. He chose not to be faithful.
    f. He chose not to receive Gods reward.
  B.
    a. Back to the two. "Come and share your masters happiness.
    b. Some rewards happen now.
    c. Most will happen in the future.

Conclusion:
   God doesn't compel us to serve it is an all volunteer army.
   God has made eternal life as simple as can be. The question do you chose to be apart of His plan?