RPG Adults
GOOD STEWARDS
MONDAY, AUGUST 29
1 Peter 4:10-11
Psalm 27
“I intreated thy favour
with my whole heart…”
GOOD STEWARDS
Often when we think of stewardship, our minds go to financial matters. But here the passage of Scripture is speaking of the many things God, in His grace, has given to equip His people for service. Each of us, as God’s children, has been given such a gift (1 Cor 12:7). And these gifts are not to be kept to one’s self, but have been given for use in the church (1 Pet 4:10). Our gifts may be different, but as we use them together in the fellowship of the church, the body grows and moves forward for God (1 Cor 12:14-31).
Guidance for the church should come only from those who have a knowledge of God’s Word (1 Pet 4:11). So far as spiritual things are concerned, God’s Word alone is truth (John 17:17). Therefore, it is only Scripture that brings us light as we continue on the pilgrim journey of life (Ps 119:105). For this reason, the Apostle Paul humbly taught the Word of God, being careful not to use either worldly wisdom or methods (1 Cor 2:1-5). We must be aware of the dangers of those who seek to replace the teaching of Scripture with worldly wisdom, and cause its message to be doubted (2 Pet 3:3).
Not only must all preaching and teaching be based on God’s Word, all service in the church must be done in God’s strength and grace (Rom 12:3). The purpose of all our work in the church is to bring honour and glory to God. The Psalmist constantly reminds us that God alone is worthy to be praised (Ps 63:1-3). Only when our service is motivated by a desire to bring glory to God alone are we good stewards of the spiritual gifts and blessings He has given to us.
THOUGHT: Have I used my gift to strengthen the church this past week?
PRAYER: Father, as I strive to be Thy good steward, I trust in Thy promise that: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Phil 4:13).