Duties of a Counselor

In the church history, E. L. Kelley, an elder, was called as a counselor to George Blakeslee, presiding bishop of the Church. In that capacity, he taught and urged the fulfilling of the law relating to finances. Hiw counsel was not warmly received by the members, with "considerable opposition." He considered resigning as counselor, but heard the Spirit whisper to him:

I have called you to teach the law contained in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, and it is my will that you do this. You will also be called to fill more important positions of trust than you now hold.

And so he maintained his position. Later, he was called as Presiding Bishop, and continued to exhort the saints. Thus as a counselor, we go out and teach the saints.

A bishop and his counselors who are not "faithful in their stewardships" are condemned with others placed in their stead. D&C 64: 40. Why? God wants Zion to flourish, such that the glory of the Lord will be upon her. D&C 64: 41. And she is to be an ensign to the people, with people from all nations coming to her. D&C 64: 42.

Stewardship

Every man must give an accounting of his stewardship. D&C 104:11-12. For every man must be accountable. D&C 104:13. If we are humble, the Lord will multiply blessings upon us. D&C 104:23. None are exempt from the law of accounting for one's stewardship. D&C 70:9. We are not equal in the abundance of spiritual things, shown via manifestations fo the Spirit. D&C 70:13-14. But we should be equal in temporal things. Blessings are the result of diligence. D&C 70:15.

Thus the talents given in the parable of the talents must refer to spiritual gifts (since all physical items should be equal). Matt. 25: 14-23. And the Lord leaves them along for a "long time." We enter into the "joy of the Lord" by being faithful and multiplying our talents.