“Stewardship”:  the starting point

In the Bible, God teaches “stewardship.”  From the very beginning God says that all of creation – including ourselves – are created by Him, and our mission is “to tend and care for it.” (Genesis 2:15)

We usually think that our bodies are our own.  Our possessions are our own.  Our property is our own.  The earth exists for our enjoyment and purposes.  We can do with them what we wish. 

But the Bible teaches that everything is God’s.  It is God who gives our bodies life.  It is God who gives us the health to earn money to buy things.  The earth and everything in it is the Lord’s. 

He gives us the responsibility to take good care of our bodies, our possessions, and creation.  We are His stewards.

“Trust in the living God, who richly gives us all we need … use your money to do good, be rich in good works, give generously to those in need, and share with others whatever God has given you.”  (1 Timothy 6:17-19)

We know that different people are involved in churches in all sorts of ways – what about me?  We know that churches don’t just survive financially because of some miracle – what about me?  Do I have anything I can give to the Lord’s work?  What should I give?

Stewardship of time …

One of the precious gifts God gives us is time.  Most of us think He has given us too little time!  But 24 hours per day and 7 days per week is really more than enough time!  The real problem may be that we are not making the best use of our time!  Either we may be wasting time (TV?), or we may be doing too many good things (work?) to have time to do the really important things (our families?)!

Every day it is essential that we find time for God!  We always seem to be able to make time for those we really love, don’t we?  Prayer, reflection and personal Bible study are important.  If our days seem too busy, maybe we need to reflect on our priorities.  Daily time with God is critical for our relationship with Him — and our spiritual health!  if we don’t make God a priority, the rest of our lives will be out of balance.

Every week we must find time for worship and, ideally, for small group Bible study and prayer.  The rest of our lives will be much more     satisfying when we make time to grow weekly with God and with others.

On a regular basis we must make time for service, taking time to serve others ...

Stewardship of talents …

Each of us has God-given talents, abilities, and spiritual gifts.  Our responsibility is to use these in service (see James 2:14-26)!

In the life of the church, you will notice many people using their gifts.  Some people lead worship or play instruments.  Others set-up and clean up for special events.  Others visit people who cannot attend.   Others maintain the facilities.  Still others serve on boards or committees.  Others look after the church finances.  Others serve by teaching children, youth, or adults.  Others are   active in the community, working in a variety of service opportunities.  Others help in the office.  Others pray for people in need and in ministry.

In the church, we depend upon one another in order for the church to function properly; we’re like a body that needs every part helping out in order to be healthy (see 1 Corinthians 12).

You can find a place where you can serve Jesus Christ using your talents, abilities, and gifts.  Speak with the pastors to find your opportunity to use your God-given gifts and talents …

Stewardship of finances …

God gives us the ability and health to earn money.  As part of our worship and adoration of Him, He asks us to give the first portion of our income back to His work, to build up His Kingdom.  After all, He is the one — really — who gives it to us in the first place, through His blessings of health and income. 

In our culture, giving money to God is often very difficult to do.  We are encouraged to keep as much as possible of our money for ourselves.  Things were much the same in Biblical times, especially since no health, social security, or pension plans existed!

The Bible repeatedly warns, however, that putting our trust in wealth does not assure us of security (Proverbs 11:4, Matthew 6:19-21, Luke 12:16-34, Luke 16:19-31).  Indeed, God gives stern warnings to the Israelites that true security came from giving (Malachi 3:6-12).

God encourages generosity!  And God promises to bless those who are generous (Proverbs 11:24-25, 19:17, Luke 10:25-37, 21:1-4).  In a wonderful passage (2 Corinthians 9:6-14), Paul says, “God loves a cheerful giver”!

The Old Testament “norm” for was that we give God the first 10% of our total income (before deductions).  This is called a “tithe.” 

The New Testament does not give us a set percentage, but most Christians use 10% as a starting point.  You may wish to give 10% of your income to the church as a tithe.  Above and beyond that, many Christians enjoy giving offerings to other ministries and missions.  This is something you need to pray about and work through with the Lord.

Can you do it? 

Most faithful givers’ experience is that God truly does more than provide for our needs when we give generously to build his Kingdom.

To help you in your giving, the church makes numbered envelopes available.  These allow you to give regularly and anonymously.  We also have a direct withdrawal option available.  A form is available from the church office.

We take confidentially very seriously.  Only one person in the church, the envelope secretary, knows how much each person gives. 

Donations to the church are tax deductible.

Giving your time, talents, and finances may seem intimidating.  It can be difficult to get started.  But give it a try!  You will be blessed!

Most Christians find that their giving — of time, abilities, or money —  is actually one of the most satisfying and meaningful activities in which they are engaged!  Giving is fun!  Giving is rewarding!

A real, eternal difference can be made in the lives of people because of your gifts!  You can be part of growing the Kingdom of God!