The first superhero movie I remember watching as a kid was Spiderman (with Toby McGuire). Even at such a young age, the movie left enough of an impression on me so that I remembered the wise words of Uncle Ben, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Uncle Ben either was drawing upon his own wise observations of the world or he knew his Bible. Jesus ended his parable of the lazy servant by saying, “Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.” (Luke 12:48; ESV).

This verse terrifies me. It terrifies me because I know how much God has given me and I constantly misuse it. Oftentimes it is because I’m incorrectly thinking that I can do what I want with my time and my money so long as it is not blatantly sinful. I can watch TV, wear nice clothes, eat delicious food at every meal. Yet Jesus’ words call me beyond this. God intends for me to enjoy his blessings, but even more so he intends for me to use these gifts properly.

If God gives us time, it is not so that we can waste it on pursuing our passions and desires, it is so we can devote ourselves to him and help others. If God gives us money, it is not so that we can purchase nice things for ourselves or achieve vain goals. God intends for us to share what we have that we do not need. For Paul said, “if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content” (1 Tim 6:8). Jesus also said, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth” (Matt 6:19).

The next time I want to buy something for myself, I am going to ask if I really need it or if I am trying to buy something because I am bored or vain. I will also ask if what I am purchasing can benefit others. The next time I am tempted to binge watch a TV show, I will ask if I truly need this break or if I could be using this precious time God has given me for something more useful to his Kingdom.