Wisdom in a Temporary World
“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.”
— Luke 16:8 (NIV)
In this Parable of the Shrewd Manager devotional, Jesus offers a surprising lesson—one that seems, at first glance, to praise dishonesty. But this story isn’t about endorsing corruption. It’s about calling God’s people to live with wisdom in a temporary world.
The manager in the parable was about to lose his job. Knowing his time was short, he used his remaining influence to build favor and secure his future. Jesus points out that if worldly people can plan ahead with that much urgency, how much more should believers live with eternal priorities?
⏳ Time Is Running Out
The manager’s job is coming to an end. Instead of panicking, he plans. He doesn’t have time to recover everything—but he does have time to act wisely with what’s left.
Jesus is reminding us that this world is not forever. Our resources, platforms, and opportunities are all temporary. One day, our time to influence others for the kingdom will run out.
The question isn’t how much we’ve been given—it’s what we’re doing with it.
🧠 Shrewdness Isn’t Sinful—It’s Strategic
The word shrewd often carries a negative connotation, but in the Bible, it refers to being wise, clever, and practical. Jesus isn’t praising the man’s dishonesty—He’s highlighting his urgency and strategy.
Too often, believers are passive with spiritual things and aggressive with worldly ones. But Jesus flips the script. He wants us to invest wisely, serve faithfully, and think eternally.
Are we using our time, talents, and treasure with kingdom purpose—or wasting them on things that will fade?
💡 Eternal Impact from Earthly Decisions
“Use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.”
— Luke 16:9
This isn’t about buying friendships—it’s about investing in people. It’s about using what we have now—money, relationships, influence—to lead others toward Jesus.
Every dollar you give in obedience, every act of service, every encouraging word can echo into eternity.
🤝 Faithfulness with Little Leads to More
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much…” — Luke 16:10
God isn’t looking for flashy faith—He’s looking for faithful stewardship. What we do with the small things reveals whether we can be trusted with greater ones.
We may not all be wealthy, but we all have something to manage. And God watches how we use it.
💡 Light & Spirit Prompt – Parable of the Shrewd Manager
Reflect and pray:
- Am I using my time and money with eternity in mind, or only for the present?
- What “little” things has God asked me to manage with faithfulness?
- Have I been passive where Jesus has called me to be strategic and shrewd?
🙏 A Simple Prayer
Father,
Help me to live wisely in this temporary world.
Teach me to invest in what truly matters.
Let my money, my minutes, and my mission reflect Your eternal kingdom.
I don’t want to waste what You’ve given—I want to steward it well.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
You don’t need more to be faithful.
You need clarity about what matters most—and courage to act on it.
💬 Share this with someone who wants to live with purpose. Tomorrow: Day 13 – The Rich Man and Lazarus.