Luke 19:26
“‘For I tell you that to everyone who has, will more be given; but from him who doesn’t have, even that which he has will be taken away from him.”
What does Luke 19:26 mean?
Jesus is speaking here about the use of what we've been given, using a parable about money as his teaching tool. The principle goes beyond finances, though: he's talking about spiritual gifts, talents, opportunities, and even faith itself. When we actively use what we have—whether that's courage, kindness, abilities, or trust in God—we tend to grow in those areas and find more opportunities to use them. But when we hide away or refuse to use what we've been given, we gradually lose even that capacity. This can sound harsh at first, especially if you're in a season where you feel like you have very little. But it's not about God punishing the poor or struggling. It's more like a natural pattern: a muscle you don't use grows weak, while one you exercise gets stronger. The good news is that "using what you have" doesn't require wealth or privilege—it means showing up with whatever is in your hands, even if it's small.