What Is A Biblical Steward?

January 5, 2007 - Category: Biblical Finance

My handle for this blog is Savvy Steward. I realized that there might be some confusion about what a steward actually is, so I decided I ought to supply a definition:

stew·ard (-noun) - a person who manages another’s property or financial affairs; one who administers anything as the agent of another or others.
(www.dictionary.com)

From a Biblical perspective we, as God’s creation, are all stewards whether we recognize it or not. Beginning with Adam and Eve, man has been commanded to honor God by making the most out of the possessions and blessings He gives to us (Genesis 1:26). God reminds us that all things come from Him (Colossians 1:16-17) and ultimately these things are entrusted to us (Luke 19:11-26). There is no list of rules to follow to become a good steward. Instead the Bible gives examples and lessons on what is God-honoring and what is not God-honoring.

The parable of the talents (Mattthew 25:14-30) highlights how each of us has been entrusted with talents and resources. What we do with them and how we “invest” them is of great importance to Jesus.

The parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:13-21) shows how each of our lives ultimately lie in God’s hands. Even if we accumulate tremendous wealth, it is God who decides when our time is up. “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you.

The Apostle Paul commends the Macedonian church (2 Corinthians 8:1-3) for giving generously, even beyond their ability.

2 Corinthians 9:6-15 shares how our generosity supplies the needs of God’s people and also reflects gratitude towards what God has given us.

The Christian walk is not defined by a set of rules or laws. It is a journey with a living God. Specifically in the area of Biblical Finance there are many things that are governed by the Bible, but there are some things that aren’t. Is it wrong to purchase a house? And if not, how big of a house can I purchase? Is it wrong to save for retirement when we know our ultimate retirement will be in heaven for all eternity? How much is too much to save for retirement? Do my financial decisions show a lack of faith in God? These are honest but tough questions we all face as followers of Christ. Sometimes there is no clear-cut choice that is laid out for us. Striving to find the balance between faith and finance is what continues to drive me to write and blog.

1 Comment »

  1. […] My fiancée and I both have a desire to live and serve overseas for a portion of our lives. We aren’t exactly sure what the timing will be, but we do know that for the time-being we are committed to becoming debt-free and striving to be good stewards of what God has given to us. […]

    Pingback by Savvy Steward » Missions and Student Debt - Part 1 — March 20, 2007 @ 8:34 pm

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