Self-discipline is one of the most important character traits a steward can have. “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Tim. 1:7, NIV). The Greek word for discipline, sophronismos, appears only here in this verse in the New Testament and involves the ability to do what must … Continue reading –>
We originally were created perfect – mentally, physically, and spiritually. Of course, sin has ruined it all. The good news of the gospel, among other things, is that God is in the process of restoring us to what we were originally meant to be. Read Acts 3:21 and Rev. 21:1-5. What hope is found in these texts for … Continue reading –>
“For we were born yesterday, and know nothing, because our days on earth are a shadow” (Job 8:9, NKJV). You can stop a clock, but not the movement of time. Time does not wait; it keeps moving forward even if we stand still and do nothing. What do the following texts teach us about our time here … Continue reading –>
Read Luke 12:35-48. What does this parable teach us about how we are to relate to the second coming of Jesus? Why must all that we do always be in the context of the reality of the Second Coming? Stewardship should be habitually practiced in light of Jesus’ return. The character of unfaithful stewards who act … Continue reading –>
We all have habits. The question is: What kind are they? Good or bad? Of all the good habits a Christian could have, seeking God first thing every day would have to be the most important one of all. “Every morning dedicate yourself, soul, body, and spirit, to God. Establish habits of devotion and trust … Continue reading –>
Read for This Week’s Study: Eph. 5:15-17, Col. 3:23, Luke 12:35-48, James 4:14, Acts 3:21, 1 Cor. 9:24-27. Memory Text: “How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought You; oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might … Continue reading –>
Further Thought: Every natural ability, skill, or gift comes from God, whether we were genetically born with it, influenced and educated by our environment, or both. The important part of the equation is what we do with the abilities and skills we have. God expects stewards to learn to be masters of their skills and abilities … Continue reading –>
Ants labor to save provisions for the winter (Prov. 6:6-8). We are wise to consider their ways when we save money routinely for a specific purpose. The point in saving is to have resources available for our living expenses or needs as opposed to wasting or hoarding what we earn. Managing money requires wisdom, budgeting, and discipline. … Continue reading –>
Read Deuteronomy 28:12. What does this teach us about getting into too much debt? What principle do we see at work here? It’s just common sense to avoid debt as much as you can. Scripture discourages us from cosigning other people’s debts as well (Prov. 17:18, Prov. 22:26). Debt leverages the future and obligates us to submit to its … Continue reading –>
“There is desirable treasure, and oil in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man squanders it” (Prov. 21:20, NKJV). This text contrasts the stewardship of economic responsibility with luxurious and wasteful management. Foolish people make no plans to live within their means. They greedily spend wealth at their disposal, even borrowed wealth, feeling that financial … Continue reading –>
