The Bible says that everything is rightfully owned by the LORD God Almighty – Psalm 24:1. It also says, that all the good that we enjoy are a gift from God – James 1:17. It is clearly understood that our time, talents, opportunities, life and all the good in it is a blessing of the LORD, out of His goodness, mercy and grace – Deuteronomy 10:14. It never was, and it never will be, that we have earned it on our own, without God and His goodness towards us.
The Bible also tells us that, we are to be stewards, good stewards, of all that is entrusted to us, by our Creator, Redeemer and Master – 1 Peter 4:10. This is where it gets tricky and tough for us, as human beings. We wish to be ‘independent,’ and want to be our own ‘masters.’ Such an attitude is a rebellious one, and the sign of an ungrateful heart. Sadly, such an attitude and heart is, but natural, for the fallen man.
Riches, how we handle it, our attitude towards all that we possess, and what we think about it, reveals our heart, and all that is in it. The Word of God unequivocally sates that God blesses us with every good thing, including money, so that we can refresh others – 1 Peter 4:10. This is an important purpose for all our possessions.
“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” – 1 Timothy 6:17-19
How are we handling all that is entrusted to us, by the LORD our Redeemer and Master? Are we being good stewards? Are we refreshing others through all that is entrusted to our care? What kind of stewards are we?
"How greatly the value of a gift depends upon the manner of giving! “He who gives soon,” according to the old proverb, “gives twice.” So he who gives with simplicity, that is, with singleness of purpose, without an underhand design, without expecting praise or notice, he gives twice, thrice, a hundredfold, more than he who gives grudgingly, than he who gives late, than he who gives ostentatiously. One gift well given is as good as a thousand; a thousand gifts ill given are hardly better than none."