Jeff Terrell – Senior Pastor, Ascend Church
Stewarding God’s Resources: A Heart Ready to Give
Today, we dive into the principles of stewardship, rooted in 2 Corinthians 9. Stewardship is a concept that extends beyond the financial and material; it’s really more of a mindset—one that acknowledges God as the owner of all we have, viewing ourselves as managers of His resources. This realization calls us to an alignment of attitude, action, and authenticity.
The Foundation of Stewardship
Stewardship begins with recognizing that everything we have is entrusted to us by God (1 Corinthians 4:7). This understanding is both humbling and empowering. Throughout our journey through biblical stewardship, we have seen that the concept encompasses our physical bodies, spiritual lives, and material resources. Here, we focus on financial stewardship—a topic that often evokes a mix of emotions, past experiences, and even controversy.
Many of us approach financial giving influenced by various sources of authority, such as tradition, personal experiences, reasoning, or Scripture. However, our ultimate guide should always be God’s Word. As we mature in faith, our understanding of Scripture should evolve from isolated “chapter-and-verse” defenses to a comprehensive theological framework that reflects God’s character and redemptive plan (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
A Biblical Perspective on Giving
Paul’s teaching on giving in 2 Corinthians 9 is built upon the Old Testament foundation of tithes and offerings. In the Old Testament, tithes were prescriptive acts of worship, often amounting to nearly 23% of a person’s income. These were complemented by voluntary offerings for special purposes, such as the construction of the tabernacle or temple. The emphasis, however, was never solely on the act but on the heart behind it—a heart of worship, gratitude, and faithfulness, prioritizing God above all else.
With the coming of Christ, His fulfillment of the Old Testament shifts our focus away from strict percentages toward the attitude and alignment of our hearts. Jesus’ fulfillment of the Law reframes giving as a means of grace (a tool gifted to Christians that grows our capacity to enjoy gospel grace), motivated by love, worship, and gratitude – rather than obligation.
Four Principles for Ready Stewardship
Paul’s letter to the Corinthians highlights four key ways we can be ready to steward what God has supplied:
1. Be Ready with Your Attitude
Stewardship begins with the mindset of readiness. In 2 Corinthians 9:1-5, Paul emphasizes the importance of preparation. Readiness is rooted in our love and reverence for God. When we understand the magnitude of Christ’s sacrifice—that though He was rich, He became poor for our sake (2 Corinthians 8:9)—our hearts are stirred to respond with generosity.
2. Be Ready with Alignment
True stewardship requires alignment with God’s purposes. Verse 6 reminds us, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” This is not a promise of material prosperity but a call to trust God’s economics. When we prioritize His kingdom, He ensures we have all sufficiency to accomplish His work (verse 8). Aligning our resources with His purposes leads to lasting impact.
3. Be Ready to Act
Giving is a deliberate decision, not an impulsive act. Verse 7 highlights this by stating, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Planning and prioritizing ensure that our giving reflects our trust in God rather than our leftover capacity.
The “big rocks” analogy is helpful here. When we prioritize the “big rocks”—our commitments to God and His kingdom—the rest falls into place. Start by setting aside a portion for giving before allocating resources to other areas.
4. Be Ready with Authenticity
Giving, both in the Old and New Testaments, serves as an authentic expression of faith and trust in God. In verses 12-14, Paul explains how the Corinthians’ generosity in giving brought thanksgiving and glory to God, authenticated their faith, and advanced the gospel. Today, our giving serves the same purpose: to display our love for Christ and support the work of His church.
Practical Steps to Stewardship
While questions about percentages and priorities abound, here are four steps to help guide your journey:
1. Evaluate Your Giving as Worship
Study Scripture to understand God’s design for giving. Reflect on passages like Malachi 3:6-12, Acts 2:42-47, and 1 Corinthians 16:1-3 to see the priority of giving to the local church as an act of worship.
2. Plan and Seek Counsel
Take time to plan your giving and seek advice if needed. Many financial challenges stem from a lack of prioritization. Start with the “big rocks” and trust God to provide for the rest.
3. Expect God’s Provision
Trust that God’s grace is sufficient to meet your needs and equip you for His work (2 Corinthians 9:8-11). Giving is not about achieving wealth but about participating in God’s mission.
4. Pray for Wise Leadership
Pray for church leaders to steward resources faithfully, ensuring they are used for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.
Conclusion
Stewardship is a privilege that allows us to reflect God’s generosity and grace. By cultivating a readiness of attitude, alignment, action, and authenticity, we can steward His resources faithfully. Let us prioritize the “big rocks” of God’s kingdom, trusting Him to guide and provide as we give for His glory.
As we move forward, let’s ask ourselves: How can we realign our hearts and lives to reflect the generous and gracious character of our Savior? With Christ as our foundation, we have all we need to live lives of faithful stewardship.
Questions?
If you have any questions or would like some advice on how to grow your relationship with God, please do not hesitate to ask us here at Ascend. Feel free to stop by for worship on Sunday, we’d love to meet you! Or send an email to info@ascendkc.org and we’ll respond. That’s why we are here – to share the love of Jesus with everyone.
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