In case you missed Part 1 it can be found here.

On this post we continue our study of the 25th chapter of the book Christ’s Object Lessons which focuses on the Parable of The Talents told by Jesus and recorded in Mathew 25:14-30.

I would really encourage you to listen to the audio above. You can also receive the audio each time a new episode comes out by subscribing to my podcast. It is available through iTunes, Stitcher, My Tuner Radio, and Spotify. (It is probably available wherever you get your podcasts, just search for PrMarlons Blog)

Some of my favorite quotes from this portion of chapter 25 include:

• “A noble, all-round character is not inherited. It does not come to us by accident. A noble character is earned by individual effort through the merits and grace of Christ. God gives the talents, the powers of the mind; we form the character. It is formed by hard, stern battles with self. Conflict after conflict must be waged against hereditary tendencies.” (COL 331)

• “Many whom God has qualified to do excellent work accomplish very little, because they attempt little. Thousands pass through life as if they had no definite object for which to live, no standard to reach. Such will obtain a reward proportionate to their works.” (ibid)

• “Remember that you will never reach a higher standard than you yourself set. Then set your mark high, and step by step, even though it be by painful effort, by self-denial and sacrifice, ascend the whole length of the ladder of progress. Let nothing hinder you. Fate has not woven its meshes about any human being so firmly that he need remain helpless and in uncertainty. Opposing circumstances should create a firm determination to overcome them. The breaking down of one barrier will give greater ability and courage to go forward. Press with determination in the right direction, and circumstances will be your helpers, not your hindrances.” (ibid. bold mine)