Matthew 25:24-25

When the third slave said his master was a "hard" (Gr. skleros) man, he meant that he exploited the labor of others, namely, this slave and his fellow slaves (cf. John 6:60; Acts 26:14; James 3:4; Judges 1:15). This slave evidently felt that his master would not share many of the rewards of his labor with him if he proved successful but would punish him severely if he failed. The fact that he had received less than the other slaves should not have made him resentful, if it did, since even he had a great opportunity. He ignored his responsibility to his master and his obligation to discharge his duty. Moreover he showed no love for his master whom he blamed, attempting to cover up his own failure. [Note: Carson, "Matthew," p. 517.]

"Grace never condones irresponsibility; even those given less are obligated to use and develop what they have." [Note: Ibid.]