An introduction of Stewardship to the congregation

You and I don’t really own anything. We are guests here on God’s earth. As the writer of Psalm 24 put it: “The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1) We are here on God’s property and using God’s minerals, plants, animals and land as though they belonged exclusively to us. Have you ever considered that fact?

     When we do consider the gifts God has given to us, most of us surely will be prompted to be grateful for such immeasurable generosity. Every day should be Thanksgiving Day, don’t you agree?  Beyond being appreciative of this marvelous and beautiful earth where we live “rent free,” people should consider what they can do to respond to God’s love. They surely will conclude that they should strive to become good stewards of all that they have been given:  the earth, their bodies, minds, and spirits. Also their families, their churches, their work, their possessions … whatever God has given to them.

An intriguing article in the July issue of Stewardship focuses on this truth that we are prone to forget. In 1873, the English composer Frances R. Havergal wrote a hymn that summarizes the intent of a truly dedicated steward:

Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to thee. Take my moments and my days and let them flow in ceaseless praise. Take my hands, and let them move at the impulse of thy love. Take my feet, and let them be swift and beautiful for thee.

Prayer: Thank you, blessed Lord, for every benefit given to us each day of our lives. Amen.

The article above is made available with our compliments and is reproducible if attribution is made to Parish Publishing.

"A Stewardship Minute" can be read by the pastor, stewardship leader or lay reader during worship to briefly introduce and remind the congregation about the principles of stewardship each month.

“A Stewardship Minute” is provided as a free supplement with a subscription to Stewardship, the #1 monthly publication about stewardship, used successfully by thousands of churches as a bulletin or newsletter insert. Used regularly in this manner, in conjunction with Stewardship, it can significantly increase the general understanding of true giving. For more information about Stewardship, Click Here.