Three weeks ago we read about the story regarding ‘the bags of gold’ or the parable of the talents.  How a business leader essentially takes a sabbatical and empowers three of his top deputies to run the business in his stead- to grow and protect his wealth until he returns.  Two of the men produce. One leads with fear and is ultimately removed from his position. 

We all have the charge of the deputies fall upon us at different points in our life.  We lose loved ones and are charged with building upon their legacy.  We are granted increased responsibility on the job where we are expected to produce results.  We marry or have children and see what we are accountable for increase tenfold.  We are given ‘bags of gold’ to grow or squander.  A blessing to treasure or watch atrophy.

In the Old Testament book of Deuteronomy 20:8 there is a passage that reads:  

And the officers shall speak further to the people, and say, ‘Is there any man who is fearful and fainthearted? Let him go back to his house, lest he make the heart of his fellows melt like his own.

This passage is essentially saying that YOUR mindset, attitude and reaction to any situation is contagious and will cause a pandemic- of positivity or negativity- wherever you go and with whomever you interact. You are powerful.  What you do, think and say matters far more than many of us could ever imagine.

How you nurture the bags of gold you are gifted is completely in your control.  How you allow our mind to operate and how grateful you choose to be is completely up to you.  Should you choose the path of the third leader and live in fear – there is a strong likelihood that you will lose opportunity, influence and respect. If you choose the path of honor, diligence and purpose – you will see your coffers grow and overflow in abundance and love.

Today, I encourage you to choose to live courageously and grow your charge.  Love your wife intentionally. Speak to your children with passion and grace- let them know they have what it takes.  Attack life on the job and be an uncommon force of positivity and execution at the office.  Seize the day with intentionality and realize how truly victorious you already are.

– Andrew Johnson