In preparation to be sent out into the world, Jesus' disciples had been given spiritual gifts to heal the sick, drive out demons, cleanse the lepers and even raise the dead. As they were being sent out, he gave them this simple command, "Freely you have received; freely give" (Matt 10:8b).
The guiding prinicple was to generously dispense to others what had so generously deposited with them. The gifts they had were not there own to selfishly hold on to or selectively hand out, they were God's bounty given to them for the purpose of being used for kingdom business - business of blessing others.
In Christ, we all "have different gifts according to the grace given to each of us" (Rom 12:6), which He intends that we "give generously" (v. 8) as well.
We tend to think in monetary terms when it comes to giving, and certainly if we have money, it is only because God blessed us and he wants us to bless others with those kingdom resources. But just as important our gifts of leadership, mercy, insight, encouragement, service of many kinds. We have been given so much that can be shared in honor of the Most High.
Good stewardship is not to hold on to and preserve what God has seen fit to put into your hands, the parable of the talents or amounts of gold given to three servants in Matthew 25:14-30, clearly shows that the one who buried the money and gave it back to his master when he returned was a total disappointment. The master expected him to increase the amount by investing it, not return what he had been given.
The guiding principle for us is that gifts from God are investments intended to grow in kingdom value by sharing them generously with those whom God brings into our part of the kingdom. Money, skills, understanding, ability...whatever we have is what we are to invest in others, who can likewise invest causing exponential growth in His kingdom.
So tell me, what on earth are you doing for heaven's sake? Jus' Askn.
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