The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. Psalm 24:1
“God, the maker of heaven and earth, owns all of creation and all it contains, as the Psalmist declares. In His benevolence He has given us all the resources of the earth to use and to enjoy.
God, however, never transferred ownership to people. He continued to be the owner, and we are merely stewards. This truth has far-reaching implications for the way we live our life and use the resources entrusted to us, including money and possessions, our work, our business, and everything we have.
If God is the owner and we are stewards, then we have to follow the will and desires of the owner. This involves knowing the heart of God, surrendering to His will, and living out our purpose…
Does God need our money? He owns the cattle on a thousand hills and every animal in the forest belongs to Him. God does not need our money, but He teaches us to give to help us gain the freedom from the love of money and depend wholly on Him. Practicing biblical stewardship guards from selfishness, greed, and hoarding…
The biggest hindrance to generosity is that we think we are owners. But if we understand that we are merely trustees and that God is the ultimate owner, this will lead us to follow the heart and the will of God. It can change the way we live in this world and treat material wealth.”
Zenet Maramara (Philippines) in “Biblical Stewardship: The Foundation of All Generosity” in Christ-Centered Generosity: Global Perspectives on the Biblical Call to a Generous Life (Colbert: GGN & KLP) 141-142.
Are you free? Or are you acting like an owner?
Live out your purpose as a faithful steward. In the parables of Jesus, the faithful stewards enter the joy of the Master. In the words of my good friend, Zenet Maramara, they “gain the freedom” God offers from the love of money.
Find freedom this Lent by following the heart and will of God.