Are You A Steward?

You have to pay the cost to be the boss is a cliché that rings in our society today. It alludes to the fact that to gain status, prestige, and success, you have to “pay your dues." Now let us refocus this phrase to our heavenly Father. He definitely paid a cost for us, through Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, so that we may have eternal life with Him when our physical life ends. Not only that, He went much further; He created an earth for us to inhabit, talents so we can make a living for our families, and gifts to serve His kingdom. All of this for His children, and in return, our Father in heaven expects us to be excellent stewards of the gifts, talents, and blessings that He has given us.

So what is a steward? A steward can be defined as a person who manages another's property or financial affairs; one who administers anything as the agent of another or others. We came into this world with nothing, so how can anyone assume that we are not stewards for the Almighty? We have always existed in a community with many people who aid in the development of our lives and careers, so how can anyone say they are self-made? We did not give ourselves our gifts, talents, or life itself, so we are truly stewards in every sense of the word. However, stewardship goes much deeper than the managerial component. Proper stewardship shows a great appreciation for the blessings, gifts, and talents that were given and it should produce a sense of integrity and healthy pride to be called a son or daughter of the Most High God.

I challenge us as a church and as individuals, to begin to utilize our time, gifts, finances, and talents for Kingdom advancement, community enrichment, and the edification of our fellow Christian and unbelievers alike. All this will prove that we are who we say we are, it will draw others to Christ where their gifts may be used, and ultimately, it will give all honor and glory to God. We were made in the image of God, so let us respond by being grateful and honorable stewards.

Meditate on this scripture that encourages stewardship:

“Each of you should use whatever gift you received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10)

~Toni H