The Discipline of Stewardship

The purpose of any spiritual discipline is to help us grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ, and become more like Christ as we grow in godliness. To become more like Christ, which is the goal of spiritual discipline, we must exercise giving.

We should think of giving as a spiritual discipline not just in the sense of giving money to someone in need, but in giving of one's time, energy, or abilities, especially where it involves sacrifice. Such giving is certainly demonstrated in the New Testament by the example of the churches of Macedonia as reported in 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, and the example of Christ Himself in 2 Corinthians 8:9. Looking at the example of God and Christ, we learn from John 3:16, which is the most well-known verse, that God loved us to the extent of giving His only Son. God did not reserve that which He deemed most important to Him, but gave freely of Himself. After God gave us Christ to be born in human flesh and dwell among us, Christ still went further and gave of Himself (Matthew 20:28). He sacrificed His life as a ransom for our sin. These are the two most pronounced examples ever set that we human beings cannot even match. In the Scriptures we are given a further example that we all can match despite our human weaknesses. Let’s look at the churches in Macedonia. The Bible records that they abounded in the grace of giving. We see in 2 Corinthians 8:5 that the Macedonians gave themselves to the Lord first, and then to others. It is said the best giving comes from who cannot afford it (Luke 21:1-4). Look at the Macedonians in the whole of 2 Corinthians 8. Despite their suffering great afflictions and poverty, the Bible records that they gave beyond their ability. Not that they were expected to give, but they just gave and gave. Their example of giving was one of par excellence.

It is said practice makes perfect. I want to believe that after making giving their practice, the Macedonians must have discovered a new liking – giving. Giving then became their joy, and so they gave joyfully. Indeed, the best giving comes from those who give cheerfully. Since their giving was following from their deepest hearts, they soon became voluntary givers. Whenever there was need in their midst, they would see to it that they meet it even without being asked (2 Corinthians 9:7). They were giving willingly (2 Corinthians 8:3) without coercion. This is the kind of giving God requires from us. Giving without looking around to see who is watching you or who recognizes your gift. Already, He who sees all that is done in secret will have seen your gift and knows the intentions of your heart. Have a willing mind and give cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7). Remember, the best giving comes from those who give freely.

Something else to remember is that the best giving comes from those who persist (Philippians 4:10-18), and those who give themselves to God. If I would share a testimony with you at this point: there have been many incidences when I have been called upon to do something or even not being called upon but coming to realise that there is a need for something to be done. Even though my schedule is crazy and I may have very little free time, just the fact that I am willing to do it as unto the Lord, God has always made it possible for me to do it. The moment I surrender and put my mind to it, somehow it has always worked out. Even if there were a deadline that I was rushing to keep, I find that things just fall in place and even remain with some extra time for rest. This always gives me joy especially when I see God manifested in the activity to which I gave myself. There is satisfaction in giving self!

Why do we give, you may ask. As Apostle Paul reminded in 2 Corinthians 9:7 that a cheerful giver need not to worry, for God always watches over those He loves. Cheerful giving makes one a recipient of God’s love and care. He provides seed to the sower so as they may bountifully reap, not for personal consumption but so that they may have all sufficiency in every good work as stated in Psalm 112:5-9. Furthermore, it is written that we should give and that it shall come back to you good measure pressed down, shaken together and flowing over to be your portion.

Giving brings praise to God. As you give, those you give to offer their gratitude to God for provision (2Co 9:11b-12), and glory is given to God for His grace in the lives of the givers (2Co 9:13-15). Giving also strengthens bonds among brethren. Liberal giving leads to God being praised liberally and strengthens the bonds of brotherly love (Philippians 1:3-8).
So what shall we say then? God is offering us a life of great joy and a surprising route to take us there. Wherever we are at this moment, God is inviting us to embark on an adventure - a journey of a lifetime - a Journey of Generosity. Remember that as quoted in Proverbs 11:25, "A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed."

Greetings!

Dear friends on my blog,
How I have missed you all! Sorry for the long it has taken to update my blog. I know you are deprived. Its amazing how fast time flies by, lots of life's the issues to attend to and all. With schooling to do, a job to keep and family issues to attend to, the cup cant get any fuller.
I am however back and grateful that i can continue with this ministry as called to.
Have the blessed remainder of the year, fully covered by the Blood of the Lamb, Christ.
With lots of love,
Marion.