In context (Mt. 25:24-27), "unprofitable" (Mt. 25:30) is not defined by lack of results but by lack of effort. The Master did not give this servant a trust he couldn't manage (Mt. 25:15). What's behind the lack of effort?
- Comparison with others. Remember, you don't have another man's assignment, gifts, perspective, history, education, etc. Faithfulness is about implementation before it is about increase.
- A skewed perspective of the Master. Yes, He is exacting, but He is also fair and loving. Remember, He didn't have to entrust you with anything!
- Self-pity. Your assignment isn't as glamorous as someone else's. You get easily discouraged and believe subconsciously that you don't deserve success. All you can talk about are failure and hardship.
- Laziness. The assignment becomes about preservation rather than expansion. You get easily overwhelmed, so you pull back and keep things safe and manageable. You enjoy talking about hard work but that's all you do -- talk.
- Suspicion of the "successful." You think that, somehow, others are in an ideal environment or have an unfair advantage. It is actually envy that is at work here. Because you are envious, you won't reach out for help.
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