New Testament
Luke 16:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The manager thought to himself, 'What shall I do now that my master is taking away my position? I cannot dig, and I am ashamed to beg.'
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Then the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship: I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed.
What Luke 16:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the manager realizes he is about to lose his job and feels desperate. He reflects on his situation, acknowledging that he is not physically capable of manual labor ('I cannot dig') and feels too proud to ask for help ('I am ashamed to beg'). This internal struggle highlights his fear of losing his social status and the uncertainty of his future. The manager's thoughts reveal a common human concern about financial security and the fear of being in a vulnerable position. His dilemma prompts him to think creatively about how to secure his future, setting the stage for the actions he will take in the following verses. This moment of self-reflection is crucial as it leads to his eventual decision-making process, which will have significant implications for his life and the lives of others around him.
How to apply Luke 16:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own situations when facing challenges. It reminds us to think critically about our skills and options rather than succumbing to despair. In times of uncertainty, we can find creative solutions to navigate our difficulties and secure our future.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Keep studying Luke 16:3
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 16:3 mean?
In Luke 16:3, the manager realizes he is about to lose his job and feels desperate. He acknowledges his inability to do manual labor and his pride prevents him from begging, highlighting his fear of losing social status and financial security.
What is the significance of the manager's thoughts in Luke 16:3?
The manager's thoughts reveal his internal struggle and fear of uncertainty as he faces job loss. This moment of self-reflection is crucial as it leads him to consider creative solutions for his future.
What does 'I cannot dig' mean in Luke 16:3?
The phrase 'I cannot dig' indicates that the manager feels he is not suited for physical labor. It reflects his awareness of his limitations and the challenges he faces in finding new work.
Why does the manager feel ashamed to beg in Luke 16:3?
The manager feels ashamed to beg because it signifies a loss of dignity and social status. His pride prevents him from seeking help, emphasizing the emotional turmoil he experiences during this crisis.
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