At Lake Bowen Baptist Church we believe that it is the responsibility of each member to support the ministry of the church family. One way is the giving of our time and abilities to fill positions of responsibilities and getting involved in hands-on ministry. It is an honor to be able to serve such a gracious Lord who has given everything for us.
Another way is for us to support the ministry financially. How we use our finacial resources, no matter how great or small they may be, is one of the clearest indicators of God's control over our day to day living. Being proper stewards concerns more than how much we place in the offerings plate each Sunday. Biblical stewardship affects every area of our life. It causes us to turn to God for guidance in making day to day decisions.
In Matthew 25:14-30 our Lord gives us Seven Steps in Stewardship:
1. God owns it all -- The deed is in His name.
God, as the owner, has rights...I, as the steward, have responsibilites. Not only is my giving decision a spirtual decision, my spending decisions are spirtual decisions.
2. Christians are in a growth process as stewards -- Growing more dependent on God.
I will always have an opportunity to grow more dependent on God. God uses my possessions as a test and a tool for my growth. Giving enables me to become less dependent on the world and more dependent on God.
3. The amount is not important -- Spirituality is not bases on total dollars given, but on Christ's character within.
God is not a condemner of wealth nor poverty. I should with open hands make everything available to God. The amount we give is determined by God's leading. Under the Old Testament Law, it was required for the general offering of a sacrafice, that ten percent is seen as the minimum. For others, especially those just starting off, even ten percent is seen as a large amount. Either way, God has promised to provide for His own.
4. Fund raising is man's way of raising money -- Stewardship is God's way of raising His children.
I must learn that stewardship is a discipline which must be learned here in this world. God uses stewardship to train us for citizenship in heaven.
5. Stewardship is not primarily about money -- It is about priorities and values.
I must constantly use God's Word as my standard in establishing personal priorities and determining my personal values. I must be willing to be used to the greatest extent possible, according to the abilities God has given me.
6. Increased giving is one proof that the steward is growing in Christian discipleship.
God may be forced (because of my untrustworthies) to transfer to a more faithful steward those possessions entrusted to me in the past. True discipleship requires my following of Him in every area of my life.
7. Faithfulness results in action -- Delay is disobedience.
In whatever God directs me to do, He wants us to obey immediately. Our delay only puts off what God is trying to do in our life.
Will you pray for God's guidance concerning your stewardship at Lake Bowen Baptist Church?