Matthew 19-20

Matthew 20:1–16. The parable of the laborers in the vineyard

Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared an important lesson to be learned from the parable of the laborers in the vineyard:

“Like other parables, this one can teach several different and valuable principles. For present purposes its lesson is that the Master’s reward in the Final Judgment will not be based on how long we have labored in the vineyard. We do not obtain our heavenly reward by punching a time clock. What is essential is that our labors in the workplace of the Lord have caused us to become something. For some of us, this requires a longer time than for others. What is important in the end is what we have become by our labors” (“The Challenge to Become,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, 34).

Elder Holland said, “There are going to be times in our lives when someone else gets an unexpected blessing or receives some special recognition. May I plead with us not to be hurt—and certainly not to feel envious—when good fortune comes to another person? We are not diminished when someone else is added upon. We are not in a race against each other to see who is the wealthiest or the most talented or the most beautiful or even the most blessed. The race we are really in is the race against sin. …  Coveting, pouting, or tearing others down does not elevate your standing, nor does demeaning someone else improve your self-image. So be kind, and be grateful that God is kind. It is a happy way to live”.

(“Laborers in the Vineyard,” Ensign, May; 2012)