How can we ensure we are "giving them their portion at the proper time"? Setting the Scene “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants, to give them their portion of food at the proper time?” (Luke 12:42) The Steward’s Call • The Master is Christ. • The household represents all He entrusts to us—families, congregations, neighbors, resources, influence. • The “portion” is anything He intends others to receive through us: truth, care, correction, encouragement, material help. • Timing matters as much as content; delayed obedience is disobedience. Identifying “Their Portion” • Spiritual nourishment—sound doctrine, gospel clarity (2 Timothy 4:2). • Practical provision—meeting physical needs (James 2:15-16). • Emotional support—comfort and counsel (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). • Godly example—showing how to live and suffer well (Philippians 3:17). Understanding “Proper Time” • Kairos, not just clock time—God-appointed moments (Ecclesiastes 3:1). • Sensitivity to the Spirit’s prompting (Galatians 5:25). • Awareness of seasons in others’ lives—infancy, maturity, crisis, celebration (Romans 12:15). Principles for Ensuring Faithful Distribution • Abide in the Word daily so the pantry is always stocked (John 15:5, 7). • Stay watchful; anticipate needs before they become emergencies (Proverbs 27:23-24). • Act promptly; procrastination spoils the meal (Proverbs 3:27-28). • Serve impartially; every servant in the household counts (James 2:1). • Rely on grace, not mere human resolve (1 Peter 4:10-11). Practical Steps in Daily Life • Schedule regular time with those you lead—family devotions, mentoring lunches, check-in calls. • Keep a giving fund or pantry ready for spontaneous generosity. • Prepare Scripture “ready-packs”—verses tailored to common needs (fear, grief, doubt, joy). • Build margin into your calendar; availability signals readiness. • Seek accountability—invite a mature believer to ask how you’re stewarding. The Heart Behind the Service • Love motivates; duty sustains (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). • Humility remembers it’s the Master’s food, the Master’s timing, the Master’s servants (Luke 17:10). • Joy flows when others are well-fed (3 John 4). Scriptural Encouragements • “It is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2) • “Blessed is that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.” (Luke 12:43) • “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.” (Matthew 25:40) • “Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9) Living It Out Stay near the Master, keep the pantry full, watch the household closely, and move the moment He nods. In every timely portion served, He is honored and His people are strengthened. |
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