Episode Details

Larry Burkett once said, “The one principle that surrounds everything else is that of stewardship; that we are the managers of everything that God has given us.” These words remind us that stewardship is not just about money or tithing—it’s about faithfully managing everything God has entrusted to us.

As believers, we’re called to be stewards because God created and owns everything. Our role is to manage His resources wisely for His purposes. But how can we know if we’re fulfilling this calling? To guide our journey of faithfulness, let’s explore the seven marks of a good steward.

1. Acknowledging God’s Ownership

Good stewards recognize that everything belongs to God, including their resources, skills, and abilities. They understand they’re temporary managers entrusted with God’s gifts for His purposes.

• Scripture to Reflect On: “You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth.” (Deuteronomy 8:18)

2. Understanding Their Mission

Good stewards grasp the significance of their role in God’s plan. They take their responsibilities seriously but approach them with humility, knowing they’re part of something greater than themselves.

• Scripture to Reflect On: “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” (Proverbs 16:3)

3. Faithfulness in Action

Faithfulness is at the heart of stewardship. This includes following God’s financial principles: earning, saving, investing, and, most importantly, giving. Faithful stewards persevere, trusting that God will honor their obedience.

• Scripture to Reflect On: “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” (Luke 16:10)

4. Trustworthiness

Good stewards are honest and trustworthy in all they do. Integrity builds a foundation for effective stewardship, honoring God, and earning the trust of others.

• Scripture to Reflect On: “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2)

5. Diligence in Their Work

Stewards are diligent, actively using what God has given them rather than neglecting or mismanaging it. They commit to working as if serving the Lord in all they do.

• Scripture to Reflect On: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” (Colossians 3:23)

6. Prayerful Dependence

Good stewards seek God’s guidance through prayer, trusting in His wisdom and provision. Prayer frees them from anxiety and anchors them in God’s peace.

• Scripture to Reflect On: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

7. Spirit-Led Action

Finally, good stewards act when the Holy Spirit leads, preparing their minds and hearts for action and living in obedience to God’s will.

• Scripture to Reflect On: “Preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you.” (1 Peter 1:13)

Dependence on God’s Grace

These seven characteristics set a high standard, reminding us that stewardship is more about faithfulness than perfection. We can’t meet these marks in our own strength. Instead, we depend on God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit to walk in obedience.

Let’s commit to being faithful stewards, trusting that God will equip us for the journey. As 1 Corinthians 4:2 reminds us, “Those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” May we glorify God in all we do, managing His gifts with care and purpose.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

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