E19: Stewardship: Managing God’s Resources for His Kingdom with Jay Link

In this episode, Jay Link from Stewardship Ministries joins host Eric Scovill to discuss the biblical concept of stewardship and how Christians should view and manage money and resources. They cover topics like the proper definition of stewardship, the role of money in faith, the biggest misconceptions around tithing, how affluenza affects our view of wealth, and how to pray to determine God's will for our lifestyle and giving. Listen in and walk away with practical tools to rethink your relationship with money through a biblical stewardship lens.

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• What is stewardship? 
• How money can work against faith 
• The definition of an unjust steward  and the parable of the unjust steward 
• The biggest misconception around stewardship
• How money's influence is the same today as in Jesus' time 
• How to apply the realization of excess
• Why we don't see ourselves as rich and how affluenza affects our perception of wealth 
• Praying for God to remove anything that stands between you and Him

 

Episode Highlights:

 

[08:17] The Instrumental Role of Money in Our Faith

 

As you accumulate more possessions, you may start relying on them for security instead of relying on the provider. This can lead to problems because your sense of security becomes tied to the stock market and other material possessions, rather than to God. When fear takes hold of your faith, it becomes difficult to make good spiritual decisions. Your finances, property, talents, relationships, and other aspects of your life should be brought under the Lordship of Jesus so that they can be used to advance His kingdom instead of being a hindrance to what God wants to do with the resources He has entrusted to you. 

[10:52] What is Stewardship?

Stewardship refers to the act of managing someone else's property as a caretaker or manager. While many people in churches associate stewardship with giving and money, the true meaning goes beyond just financial contributions. It involves recognizing that God owns everything in the universe, including our possessions, talents, time, and relationships. As stewards, we are entrusted with a small but strategic portion of these resources to be used for God's purposes and His glory. This mindset shifts our focus from being owners of our own little financial empires to being caretakers of the King of kings and the Lord of lords, allowing us to live a life that honors God and advances His kingdom.

[21:51] The Biggest Misconception Around Stewardship

 

The biggest misconception about stewardship is that we owe God 10%. This stems from an Old Testament law that required tithing for the Jewish community. However, this doesn't apply to modern-day Christians who should focus on managing all their resources for God's purposes. This perspective can lead to giving generously and joyfully rather than just fulfilling a legalistic obligation.

Resources:

https://stewardshiplibrary.com