Financial stewardship is a core principle in Christianity that emphasizes responsible and wise management of resources. For young Christians, understanding and practicing financial stewardship is not only a demonstration of faith but also a path toward financial stability and a means to bless others. In this article, we will explore practical ways in which young Christians can practice financial stewardship in their lives.
What is Financial Stewardship?
"Jesus Christ said more about money than about any other single thing because, when it comes to a man's real nature, money is of first importance. Money is an exact index to a man's true character. All through Scripture there is an intimate correlation between the development of a man's character and how he handles his money." - Richard Halverson
In the realm of personal finance, it is essential to remember that finances are a gift from God, and as such, they should be managed with the utmost care and responsibility. The Bible provides us with timeless wisdom on handling our finances as faithful stewards of God's blessings. The Bible teaches us that all wealth and resources ultimately come from God. In Deuteronomy 8:18, it is written,
"But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth."
This verse underscores the fact that our ability to generate income and accumulate wealth is a divine gift. We are not self-made individuals, but rather recipients of God's gracious provision. Furthermore, Psalm 24:1 declares,
"The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it."
This verse emphasizes that not only our wealth but also the entire world and everything in it belongs to God. It serves as a reminder that we are mere stewards entrusted with managing God's resources. As stewards of God's resources, we are called to manage our finances wisely and responsibly. Ultimately, the biblical perspective on finances teaches us that money does not belong to us; it belongs to God. As Psalm 50:10-12 states,
"For every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine. If I were hungry, I would not tell you, for the world is mine, and all that is in it."
This passage underscores that God is the owner of all wealth, and we are simply caretakers. Recognizing this truth should humble us and lead us to handle our finances with gratitude, humility, and a desire to honor God with our financial choices.
The Parable of the Talents
The Parable of the Talents, found in Matthew 25:14-30 is a powerful and timeless teaching on the concept of financial stewardship. The parable begins with a wealthy man who is preparing for a journey. He calls his servants and entrusts them with his property. To one, he gives five talents; to another, two talents, and to the last, one talent. It's important to understand that a talent in biblical times was not just a measure of money but symbolized any valuable resource or gift that a person might possess.
The first two servants, those given five and two talents respectively, immediately put their talents to work. They invest and trade with diligence, doubling their talents. This demonstrates their faithfulness and resourcefulness. In contrast, the third servant, who received one talent, buries it in the ground out of fear and laziness.
The story takes a turn when the wealthy man returns from his journey. He calls upon his servants to give an account of their stewardship. The first two eagerly present their doubled talents, and their master commends them, saying, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" The third servant, however, approaches with fear and trembling. He confesses that he buried the talent, explaining that he was afraid of his master's harshness. The master rebukes him, calling him wicked and lazy. He takes the one talent from the unfaithful servant and gives it to the one who had ten talents. The parable concludes with a warning: "For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
Approach Finances with Gratitude
In a world driven by material pursuits and financial ambitions, it is easy to become ensnared by the illusion of ownership over our finances. The pursuit of wealth can often lead us to believe that we are the sole architects of our financial success. However, a biblical perspective reminds us of the importance of gratitude and humility in managing our finances. The Bible teaches us that gratitude is a virtue that should permeate every aspect of our lives, including our finances. In the book of 1 Thessalonians 5:18, it is written,
"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
This verse reminds us that no matter our financial situation, whether we are experiencing abundance or scarcity, we should remain thankful to God. Recognizing that our financial well-being is a gift from God instills in us a sense of humility and dependence on Him.
Stewardship, Not Ownership
The Bible teaches us that we are stewards, not owners, of our finances. In 1 Corinthians 4:2, it is written, "Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful." This verse underscores our responsibility to manage the resources God has entrusted to us faithfully. When we view ourselves as stewards, we recognize that God is the ultimate owner, and we are accountable for how we use His blessings.
One of the most striking parables in the Bible that illustrates the danger of viewing finances as solely our own is the Parable of the Rich Fool found in Luke 12:16-21. In this parable, a wealthy man plans to build larger barns to store his abundant harvest and says to himself, "Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry." However, God rebukes him, saying, "Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?"
This parable serves as a powerful reminder that our lives and our wealth are ultimately in God's hands. The rich man's mistake was not in being wealthy but in thinking that he alone was responsible for his prosperity. His arrogance led to his downfall, emphasizing the need for humility and gratitude in the management of our finances.
Prioritize Tithing and Giving
Tithing, giving a portion of one's income to the church, is a fundamental practice in Christian stewardship. Young Christians should prioritize tithing as a way to support the church's mission and ministries. Beyond tithing, consider allocating a portion of your income for charitable giving to support causes that align with your values. Remember, generosity is a cornerstone of Christian stewardship.
The incident of the widow who gave two small coins is a poignant and memorable story from the New Testament of the Bible. This incident is found in the Gospel of Mark 12:41-44 and the Gospel of Luke 21:1-4. It serves as a powerful lesson on the nature of true giving and the value of a sincere heart.
In this incident, Jesus is at the temple in Jerusalem, observing people making their offerings. Many wealthy individuals were making substantial contributions, putting large sums of money into the temple treasury. However, amidst this display of generosity, Jesus notices a poor widow who approaches the treasury and quietly drops in two small copper coins, which were collectively worth only a fraction of a penny.
Jesus then gathers his disciples and tells them that the widow's offering, though meager in material value, surpasses all the larger contributions. He explains that the others had given out of their abundance, while the widow had given all she had, her entire livelihood. The significance of this story lies in its emphasis on the attitude of the heart and the principle of sacrificial giving. The widow, despite her poverty, demonstrated a profound trust in God and a willingness to give sacrificially. Her act of generosity reflects the essence of true giving, which is not determined by the amount but by the sincerity and sacrifice behind it.
Create and Stick to a Budget
One of the most effective ways to practice financial stewardship is by creating and sticking to a budget. A budget provides a clear overview of income and expenses, helping individuals allocate their resources wisely. When crafting a budget, young Christians should consider their income, expenses, and any financial obligations. This practice encourages responsible spending and ensures that funds are allocated for God-honoring purposes. Budgeting is not just a financial exercise; it is a means by which young Christians can fulfill their role as stewards of God's blessings. It allows us to allocate our resources intentionally, prioritize giving, and prepare for future needs.
Have an Eternal Perspective Towards Finances
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it is easy to become consumed by the pursuit of financial security and material wealth. However, the Bible provides us with profound wisdom on the importance of having an eternal perspective towards our finances. It encourages us not to store up treasures on earth and reminds us that earthly wealth is fleeting in the grand scope of eternity. The Bible teaches us in Matthew 6:19-21,
"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
This passage underscores the transient nature of earthly possessions. Material wealth is susceptible to decay, loss, and theft. Instead, we are encouraged to focus on accumulating treasures in heaven, which are eternal and immune to corruption. These heavenly treasures include acts of love, kindness, and service to others, all of which resonate in eternity.
Avoid Debt
Debt can be a significant obstacle to financial stewardship. Young Christians should aim to avoid unnecessary debt and manage existing debt wisely. Debt, when not managed carefully, can become a heavy burden. It can consume one's financial resources, limit the ability to give generously, and lead to stress and anxiety. The Bible teaches us in Proverbs 22:7,
"The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender."
This verse illustrates how debt can enslave us, preventing us from living according to God's plan for our lives. In Romans 13:8, the Bible instructs us to "owe no one anything, except to love each other." This verse encourages us to strive for a debt-free life, recognizing that when we owe others, it can divert our focus from loving and serving one another.
Live Within Your Means
Living within your means is a financial principle rooted in biblical wisdom. It encourages individuals to spend less than they earn and avoid accumulating debt beyond their ability to repay. Contentment is a vital aspect of living within your means. It means finding satisfaction and peace with what we have rather than constantly striving for more. As young Christians, contentment allows us to focus on our faith, relationships, and service to others rather than being consumed by material desires. Living within your means involves practical steps, such as creating and following a budget, avoiding excessive debt, and making mindful financial decisions. It requires discipline, self-control, and the willingness to make sacrifices when necessary.
“All of us can learn good stewardship by enacting the following: Spend Less than You Earn, Give Generously, Avoid Debt, Plan for Financial Margin, and Set Long Term Goals.” –Ron Blue
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