How does 1 Chronicles 27:26 highlight the importance of stewardship in our lives? The Verse in Focus “Ezri son of Chelub was in charge of the workers who farmed the land.” (1 Chronicles 27:26) What the Setting Reveals • David’s kingdom was carefully organized, even down to agriculture. • Naming Ezri and his role shows God values everyday work, not only priestly or military duties. • The king delegated responsibility, expecting faithfulness and productivity from those entrusted with resources. Stewardship Principles Embedded in the Verse • Ownership belongs to God; people manage what is His (Psalm 24:1). • Specific accountability—Ezri “was in charge,” meaning results mattered. • Labor is honorable; cultivating land reflects Genesis 2:15 where God placed Adam “to work it and keep it.” • Good stewardship supports the welfare of the nation; when fields prosper, families eat, worship advances, and the kingdom thrives. Lessons for Daily Life 1. Recognize your field. – Job, home, finances, gifts, and time are God-given plots to cultivate. 2. Accept responsibility. – “It is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2) 3. Work diligently and skillfully. – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” (Colossians 3:23-24) 4. Plan and organize. – David’s detailed lists model careful planning (Proverbs 21:5). 5. Expect evaluation. – Luke 12:42-44 portrays the master returning to assess his steward’s performance. Motivations that Keep Stewardship Joyful • Gratitude: every assignment is a gift (James 1:17). • Witness: faithful management adorns the gospel (Titus 2:10). • Reward: “Well done, good and faithful servant…enter into the joy of your master.” (Matthew 25:21) Concrete Ways to Apply 1 Chronicles 27:26 This Week – List your current responsibilities; identify one neglected area to improve. – Set a measurable goal (budget review, study schedule, garden plan). – Pray for wisdom, then act, trusting God to multiply faithful efforts (2 Corinthians 9:10). Supporting Scriptures for Further Reflection • Genesis 1:28; 2:15 – Dominion and cultivation. • Proverbs 27:23-27 – Know the condition of your flocks. • Luke 16:10 – Faithfulness in little precedes faithfulness in much. • 1 Peter 4:10 – Use gifts as good stewards of God’s varied grace. |