Day 24
Have you ever wondered what stewardship is?
Have you ever wondered what God expects you to do with your possessions?
Read: 1 Peter 4:10-11
These verses encourage believers to use the gifts they have received to serve one another faithfully, as good stewards of God's grace in its various forms. It instructs those who speak to do so as if speaking God's words, and those who serve to do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things, God may be praised through Jesus Christ.
Read: Luke 12:41-48
In this parable, Jesus teaches about the responsibilities of His followers and the consequences of their actions. In it, a faithful and wise manager is rewarded for being diligent and responsible while his master is away. Conversely, a servant who neglects his duties and mistreats others faces severe punishment when the master returns unexpectedly.
It is no secret that our society is materialistic. God has a different perspective. When you consider God’s part in creation the world, you will realize that everything you “own” is really God’s. Not yours - God’s. While you are here on earth, he is entrusting you with it.
Because all you have is on loan from God, you know not to cling to your possessions. They will only slip through your fingers. When God entrusts you with possessions, he expects you to honor him with what you have.
The Bible teaches that we are to give God our first fruits - meaning the first and best of all we have. Is that because God needs our money? You must be kidding. Why, then, is giving so important? When you give, you put your possessions in proper perspective. Giving helps you participate in God’s work.
Good stewardship means that you work and give cheerfully. Take inventory of your gifts, talents, and possessions. Invest them in the world around you so that with a glad heart you can report back to the giver.
Each one should give as you have decided in your heart to give. You should not be sad when you give, and you should not give because you feel forced to give. God loves the person who gives happily - 1 Corinthians 9:7
Personal Application:
Additional Reading: Matthew 25:15-23