What Jesus Did! 'Spiritually Shrewd' — Luke 16:8-9

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

[Concluding the story about the unscrupulous manager, Jesus said,] "The rich man had to admire the dishonest rascal for being so shrewd. And it is true that the children of this world are more shrewd in dealing with the world around them than are the children of the light. Here's the lesson: Use your worldly resources to benefit others and make friends. Then, when your possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an eternal home."
— Luke 16:8-9 NLT

Key Thought

Some worldly people are quite shrewd. Some can think of many ways to accumulate and use earthly resources — honestly and dishonestly. Jesus, however, wants his disciples to use their worldly resources in ways that are spiritually shrewd. We don't use our resources to control others and don't hoard those resources to be overprotective of our future, but to bless others. Benefiting others and using our earthly resources to be a blessing and a friend to others are our goals. God blesses us so that we can be a blessing. As we are faithful stewards of God's blessings, we please our heavenly Father and store up our treasures in heaven.

Today's Prayer

Father, make me wise in the way I use the many blessings you have lavished upon me. Make me a conduit of your blessings. Help me find ways to put your resources entrusted to me to work in building your Kingdom and blessing those you would bless. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Matthew 6:19-21
  • Mark 10:21
  • 2 Corinthians 9:6-11

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Illustration

Illustration of Luke 16:8-9 NLT — "The rich man had to admire the dishonest rascal for being so shrewd.

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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