[209 words]
According to Webster’s dictionary a steward is “one who manages another’s property, finances, or other affairs.” Many parables of Jesus relate to stewardship (Luke 12:42-46; 16:1-13; 19:12-27; etc.). The idea of stewardship carries with it the idea of accountability. If I am your steward you will expect me to handle your affairs, your property, and your money properly and you will hold me accountable for the misuse of those things.
In truth, we are all stewards of God. He owns everything and we are simply stewards, managers of the things God has entrusted us with. God said, “If I were hungry I would not tell you; for the world is Mine and all its fullness” (Psalm 50:12). God created everything. He owns it all and nothing “belongs” to you or me. If you don’t believe this is true just try to take it with you when you die. The question of life is not how much can you accumulate. It is how are you using what you have been given? And God will hold you accountable. How much of your Master’s goods are you wasting? How much do you spend on yourself? How much is reinvested for the growth of God’s kingdom?
Alton Norman
Owingsville church of Christ
Owingsville, KY