One of the most anticipated milestones for many teenagers is obtaining a driver’s license. I was no different. I can recall learning to drive a small car in our yard (which was big enough that I could drive it around the house).
In those days, it was more common and appealing to learn to drive a ‘stick shift’ or standard transmission vehicle as opposed to an automatic vehicle. Standard cars were prevalent and cheaper, plus your ability to drive them meant you could drive either vehicle type. However, it was much more challenging to do so.
Yet, the key to changing gears manually is to start in the first gear, and as you increase your speed to the appropriate level, you can then shift to the second gear. Similarly, once in second gear, you must increase your speed further to change to third gear, and so on. Only when one has sped up adequately can one then be in a position to shift to a higher gear, with the potential for greater speed. Maintaining the same speed removes the opportunity to successfully change to a higher gear, which would allow for even greater speed. Furthermore, jumping from first gear to fourth gear would more than likely result in the vehicle stalling.
Promotions are exciting. They signify accomplishment and are often associated with perks and rewards. However, our desire for elevation to positions with greater responsibility, privileges, and impact must be accompanied by a willingness to take full advantage of the opportunities we have before us right now. When we fulfill our commitments and responsibilities, we position ourselves for greater impact. This is the reward of good stewardship.
In Matthew 18:14-30, Jesus illustrates this principle in the parable of the stewards to whom their lord gave differing amounts of talents. One was given five, one two, and the other one. After a period of time, they were called to give an account of their stewardship by their lord. The one who had received five talents produced another five. The one who had two made another two. And they both received the same commendation from their lord,
“Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”
Their diligence to maximize the opportunities they were given made them eligible for greater opportunities, impact, and fulfillment.
On the other hand, the negligent steward who buried his talent was given no such opportunity. In fact, his talent was taken and given to the one who had gained five.
So, even when you feel stuck, whether it is on a job, in your school, in your role, or as you perform your responsibilities, take full advantage of the opportunities that you have, accelerate, stay focused, and be patient. Soon, you will be able to change gears. And new opportunities for impact, influence, and growth will come your way!