Financial Stewardship

Financial Stewardship

by Joshua Reyes

"The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. As it is written, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever. ”He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness." 2 Corinthians 9:6-10 ESV
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"Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38 ESV

God blesses and shows honor and favor to those who give and trust Him with their finances. Though the tithe is an Old Testament principle, in the New Testament we are told by Jesus to sell our belongings for the benefit of others. In the book of Acts people gave way above the 10% Tithe for the benefit of the church community. Giving God 10% of our income is biblically minimum compared to the early church. We do not have the ability to out give God so whenever we give to the Lord, we should expect a great return in some form. He is a good God and when we give out financial first-fruits to Him everything else will fall into place.

"Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5 ESV
It's okay to have money, but it's not okay to let money have you. If your life revolves completely around gaining and retaining finances, there's a problem. Money is a tool we are to posses, not an idol we should be ruled by. Take care of the needs of yourself and your family. Working tirelessly just to have finances for luxury isn't wise. Especially when the tireless working gets in the way of family relationships, friendships, your mental and physical health, and your relationship with God. 

Learn to cut back on things that aren't absolutely necessary and find creative ways to reduce your spending habits if finances always seem to be an issue. If you are able, save up for the future and set financial goals with a preferred time frame. God is our provider, and we were never meant to live in lack. Do research and talk to professionals about managing finances, bills, and debt. There are a multitude of resources at your fingertips that can help you organize and make life easier.
"For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies. Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living." 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 ESV
​God is our provider but doesn't enable us to become lazy. Be intentional about how you work and where you work. You work ethic and character in the workplace should be reflecting the character of Christ. Work hard for the things you want in life but make sure to keep God and your family as a major priority! If you want something you've never had before, you have to do something you've never done before. If you want a better job, look for it. If you want a promotion, work for it. Either way, remember to give God the glory!
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