How can we apply the principles of stewardship found in Numbers 31:51 today? The Scene in Numbers 31:51 “Then Moses and Eleazar the priest received the gold from them, all the crafted ornaments.” (Numbers 31:51) Fresh from victory over Midian, the soldiers realize every life was spared (v. 49). Out of gratitude they bring part of their plunder—bracelets, rings, earrings—so Moses and Eleazar can lay it before the LORD. Their act and the leaders’ careful reception reveal timeless stewardship lessons. Overflowing Gratitude Fuels True Stewardship • Victory, safety, promotion, income—each is God’s gift. • The soldiers respond voluntarily, not under duress (v. 50). • “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” (Proverbs 3:9) Application today: Consciously trace every gain back to God before deciding what to do with it. Give Willingly and Generously • No percentage was commanded, yet they brought 16,750 shekels (v. 52). • “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) Application today: Budget for generosity, then look for unexpected occasions to exceed that plan. Practice Transparent Accountability • Two leaders handle the gold together (v. 51). • The weight is recorded publicly (v. 52). • “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” (Luke 16:10) Application today: – Dual signatures on ministry accounts – Regular financial reporting to donors and members – Personal tracking of income, giving, saving, spending Dedicate Resources to Worship and Remembrance • The offering is placed in the Tent of Meeting “as a memorial for the Israelites before the LORD.” (v. 54) • Memorial giving keeps God’s past faithfulness in view for future generations. Application today: – Fund Bibles, hymnals, or mission projects that keep pointing people to Christ – Mark milestones (a saved life, a paid-off debt, a healed relationship) with a special gift to kingdom work Shared Responsibility: Leaders and People Together • Soldiers bring the gold; leaders steward it. • “Let the elders who lead well be considered worthy of double honor.” (1 Timothy 5:17) Application today: – Congregations give; pastors and treasurers manage with integrity – Board-approved budgets, audited statements, and open-door policies maintain trust on both sides Putting It All Into Practice This Week • List every “Midianite victory” God granted you lately. • Decide on a voluntary thank-offering beyond regular giving. • Confirm that at least two unrelated, godly people oversee every church or ministry account you support. • Designate part of what you give for projects that will outlive you—scripture translations, church plants, scholarships. • Keep a physical or digital “memorial log” of how each gift ties back to a specific act of God. Key Takeaways • All increase comes from the Lord. • Gratitude looks like generous, voluntary giving. • Stewardship demands accountability and transparency. • Our resources should advance worship and serve as testimonies of God’s faithfulness. • Leaders and givers share the load, ensuring integrity and impact. Living these principles lets every paycheck, possession, and opportunity echo what happened by the Tent of Meeting—and turns modern disciples into faithful stewards God can trust with even more. |
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