October 3: Insight Post by Julie Christensen

  -   October 3, 2025

God’s Kingdom Requires Active Participation: This parable emphasizes that being part of God’s kingdom means actively participating and making the most of the opportunities He provides. Jesus expects us to take initiative and grow what He has entrusted to us.

Friday Verse

God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 1 Peter 4:10 (NLT)

Friday Questions

How can I actively participate in building God’s kingdom with the talents and opportunities I’ve been given? In what ways can I take initiative to grow and serve with the gifts God has entrusted to me?

Friday Insight Post
by Julie Christensen

My husband and I recently finished the fifth season of The Chosen, so this week’s readings on the parables remind me again of the incredible teacher that Jesus is. Today’s specific passage highlights partnership for me. We can often be our own worst critics, but Scripture makes it clear that each of us has been given spiritual gifts. No matter what doubts you tell yourself about lacking skills or talents, you have a gift to offer. These aren’t perfectly wrapped packages with satin ribbons. They are uniquely chosen gifts, designed for our individual hearts and handpicked by our Creator. If God put that much care into selecting my spiritual gift, why wouldn’t I be eager to share it? These gifts won’t run out, wear down, or fade away. These gifts were given to be used. If your heart feels deeply for others, maybe your gift is mercy or encouragement. Do you naturally show compassion and long to lighten someone’s burden? Do words of encouragement come easily to you? Our gifts weren’t created for self-promotion; they were designed to build others up. God’s plan is that we grow stronger together. What better way to hone our gifts than by using them in partnership with others? 

Julie Christensen
Senior Director of Silo Center

New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
www.newhope.org