Read: 2 Cor. 9:10-12 |
Coram Deo means “before the face of God”.
In the 16th century, Christians used this Latin phrase to remind themselves of how they should live for Christ. Even now, the phrase captures an eternal truth that reminds us that our daily walk of faith is made before the face of God.
Our daily walk of faith can be illustrated by the scriptural emphasis on stewardship.
Stewardship – Definition
In the New Testament, two Greek words embody the meaning of our English word “stewardship.” The first word is epitropos which means “manager, foreman, or steward.” From the standpoint of government, it means “governor or procurator.” At times it was used in the New Testament to mean “guardian,” as in Galatians 4:1-2.
The second word is oikonomos. It also means “steward, manager, or administrator” and occurs more frequently in the New Testament. Depending on the context, it is often translated “dispensation, stewardship, management, arrangement, administration, order, plan, or training.” It refers mostly to the law or management of a household or of household affairs.
Source: GotQuestions.com – What is biblical stewardship?
Stewardship is a multi-dimensional term. It is not just about the money. A good steward manages all their tangible and intangible gifts for God as if it’s the last thing they’ll do. For whether they are a good steward or not, it “will be” the last thing that they will do before reaching the judgement seat!
Reason – To be a good steward
Typically, church folk scatter or tune-out when they hear the Pastor start to talk about Stewardship or Evangelism. Both concepts require a degree of accountability and responsibility that ruins the vibe of anyone with self-righteous blood cruising through their bodies. After all, why subject yourself to something that might make you feel guilty for what you’ve already decided that “you” want to do?
The biblical doctrine of stewardship defines man’s relationship to God. “He” is the creator of all things; “we” are the managers of what He has provided (Psalms 24:1). He has entrusted each of us with tangible and intangible gifts that are meant to benefit more than just ourselves (1 Peter 4:10; Romans 12:4–6).
In fact, a good steward can reach out and motivate others to join them to fulfill God’s plans.
Rationale – It is possible to a good steward
In heaven, we don’t automatically receive the “Good Steward” badge because we joined the pledge drive at church! As we said earlier, stewardship is multi-dimensional. Giving of our time, talent AND treasure round out the stewardship zone that we manage.
Stewardship of Time
Since it is a limited resource, our time should be spent wisely. In Eph. 5:15-16, Paul notes that we should “…be wise, making the most of your time,…”.
In short, don’t waste time, spend time for Him and with Him!
Stewardship of Talent
You are gifted!
God grants spiritual gifts as well as natural gifts to each of us. The spiritual gifts have God’s DNA embedded and are the result of the power of the Holy Spirit. Natural gifts or talents are by-products of our genetic DNA from our parents or from training. They include our appearance, strength, height, etc.
Both our spiritual gifts and natural gifts were granted to be used for the glory of God.
Stewardship of Treasure
Money, money, money.
In its simplest form, the stewardship of treasure is how a believer manages the money that God has allowed them to accumulate. Money will serve us, as we use it to serve God and others. The way we handle money is a barometer of our faith in God. Be faithful by submitting to “the wisdom from above” (James 3:17).
Follow the words of Paul in Colossians 3:23-24 and work with all your heart with all that you have been provided.
When held to the light of God’s word, the stewardship of our Time, Talent and Treasure act as a prism that reflects our Coram Deo service. Strive to be a good and faithful steward.
Questions:
1. Discover –
A. Is it possible that God can expect too much from us, after all we are only human?
B. What are your spiritual gifts? What are your natural gifts?
2. Develop –
A. How do you use your spiritual gifts to glorify God?
B. How do you use your natural gifts to glorify God?
C. How do you grade your Stewardship level? Can it be improved? If so, how would you accomplish this?
3. Demonstrate –
A. How would your prayer partner or spouse characterize your Stewardship rating?
B. What can you apply this week from this devotional to improve your stewardship?
