The Perspective of Stewardship
Paul says in 1 Timothy 6:6 “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (NIV). How we look at, view, or perceive life, through the eyes of a steward, can transform our very essence. This view is the Perspective of Stewardship.
Those not rich in contentment, cannot affect their perspectives with the formula of true wealth. If we perceive we have not climbed the corporate ladder high enough, not made enough deals to elevate us to success, not accumulated enough mutual funds and retirement funds, or do not experience enough excess at the end of the month, we may not feel we are where we should be. But this perception only leaves us a loser.
Godliness + Contentment = Great Gain, and true wealth! This formula in fact, gives super wealth. Godliness is our authentic
walk with God and is evidenced by passion for Holy living. (Read Psalm 63: 1-11 (a Psalm of David when
he was in the desert in
Inner sufficiency and the maintenance of peace, leads to satisfaction on the inside no mater what might be going on…outside. We need to be thankful for where we are right now…e.g. content. (Read 2 Cor. 3:5 …Not of ourselves…but our competence comes from God…)
If Godliness or contentment is missing, we will be poor no matter what we have in our bank accounts. As God’s stewards, we need proper perspective, and more possessions will not bring happiness. Until we realize having a house does not make a home; having companions does not insure friends; having a bed does not equal a good night’s sleep, having a good life does not grant eternal life…we can’t be Godly stewards. Fussing or complaining about where we wish we were… makes a poor person. From birth to death, God supplies and grants all, so we need to be thankful right where we are. Praise God for any something He gives along the way! How are our perspectives today?
September 2007 Source: Principles of Christian Stewardship – Dr. Anthony Evans