Stewardship is a way of life. Being a steward means that we acknowledge that everything we have: our gifts, talents, resources, even our lives are entrusted to us by God to build His Kingdom. Therefore, stewardship involves responsible management of our resources of time, talent, and treasure. Stewards as disciples of Jesus Christ see themselves as caretakers of all God's gifts. Gratitude for these gifts is expressed in prayer, worship, offering and action by eagerly sharing our gifts out of love for God and one another.

Stewardship is based on the spiritual principles of the Old Testament and the teachings of Jesus. Stewardship is not just a fundraiser or the passing of a collection basket; it is a way of thanking God for all His blessings by returning a portion of the time, talent, and treasure we have each received.

Stewardship is a path to holiness. It makes us more like Christ who came not to be served, but to serve. It is a grateful awareness that all we have and all we are comes freely from God. When we offer our lives back to God in love, He blesses that generosity a hundredfold.

What Does Scripture say about stewardship?

As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God's varied grace.
—1 Peter 4:10

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be given you besides.
—Matthew 6:33

You have been told, O man, what is good, and what the Lord requires of you: Only to do the right and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God.
—Micah 6:8

Reflection Questions

• What resources, talents, and abilities has God given me? Do I use them in service to others?
• If I am to work to be an effective Christian steward, with the help of God's grace, what will it cost me in terms of personal sacrifice and hardship? Am I willing to do this?
• How can I be of help to others in recognizing and using the gifts that they've been given?