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When it comes to how much money we save vs. spend vs. give, there are many opinions. This week, we wrestle through some of the issues related to this topic and try to gain a proper perspective on how to handle money God's way.
Week 2: Steward/ship
Introduction: Big changes
A true disciple of Jesus, disciple/ship has to include steward/ship
Stewardship = “One who manages another’s financial affairs.”
To be stewards is to manage God’s resources appropriately.
Jesus Scripture
This Scripture deals with the connection between living a life that brings God’s kingdom to earth and the allocation of our resources.
Kingdom stewards
There isn’t a disconnect between living a life that is expectant of God intersecting with us and how we handle the resources he has blessed us with.
When we think of ourselves as the owner, it becomes very, very difficult to open our hands enough to pass any wealth on to others. ~ Dave Ramsey
Stewardship isn’t just so you can be comfortable and cushy. The point is for the health of His Kingdom.
It is impossible to become a fully developed follower of Jesus without also becoming a fully developing steward of your resources. ~ Randy Alcorn
Proverbs - give
One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. ~ Proverbs 11:24
Proverbs - Save
The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down. ~ Proverbs 21:20
This calls us to use wisdom in saving our money.
Proverbs - debt
The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. ~ Proverbs 22:7
Debt makes us a slave and robs us from being generous, saving, and being responsible stewards of God’s resources.
What’s the balance between generosity, glutinous, and the right amount?
Joseph
Reflecting the kingdom
Our whole life, including our finances, should be a reflection of God’s Kingdom.
We are to find comfort in God alone and not in the temporary.
Make as much money as you can, save as much as you can, and give as much as you can. ~ John Wesley
Application
- Cast-off
- Save-up
- Give-away
Prayer: Ps. 119:33-40 MSG
next week – The “T” Word
Anchor Group Questions
Hangout Warming up to the topic
- As we begin to discuss the connection between stewardship and discipleship, what are some questions you have about there connect to each other?
Hear Listen to God through Scripture
- Read Luke 12:16-21, 42-46
- What thoughts or feelings do you have as you read 16-21?
- What would be the outcome of living this way?
- What are thoughts or feelings do you have as you read 42-46?
- What would be the outcome of living this way?
- Read Proverbs 11:24, 21:20, 22:7
- How can/do/should these verses affect how we live?
- Read Genesis 41:34-36
- How would it change your life if you implemented this principle?
Huddle Make it personal and pray together
- What has God been saying to you through this week’s teaching? Talk about the next steps in your life and pray for each other.
- How can we be a safe place for others—a place to be known and loved?
