What can we learn about stewardship from Job's wealth in Job 1:3? Job 1:3 in Focus “He possessed 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, and 500 female donkeys, and a very large number of servants. So this man was the greatest of all the people of the East.” Wealth Given, Not Self-Made • Psalm 24:1 reminds us, “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof.” • Job’s vast herds and servants underscore that every asset ultimately belongs to God; Job is a manager, not an owner. • Deuteronomy 8:18: “Remember that it is the LORD your God who gives you the power to gain wealth.” The verse protects the heart from pride. Prosperity as a Trust, Not a Trophy • Scripture presents Job’s riches as a stewardship assignment, not a badge of superiority. • 1 Timothy 6:17-19 calls the wealthy to “be rich in good works… generous and ready to share.” Job’s later actions (Job 29:12-17) show he lived this out. • Abundance increases responsibility; the more entrusted, the more God-honoring impact expected (Luke 12:48). Faithful Administration of Tangible Assets • 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, 500 donkeys—each category served a different economic function: – Sheep: clothing and sacrificial worship. – Camels: long-distance trade routes. – Oxen: plowing and harvest. – Donkeys: local transport and daily labor. • A diversified, well-managed portfolio honors God by maximizing utility and minimizing waste (Proverbs 27:23-24). Care for People within the Estate • “A very large number of servants” implies employment, provision, and protection for many families. • Colossians 4:1 instructs masters to treat servants “justly and fairly.” Job 31:13-15 shows Job examining his practices toward them. • Stewardship extends beyond property to the well-being of those under our care. Open-Handed Generosity • Job’s later self-testimony (Job 31) lists feeding the poor, clothing the naked, and defending the vulnerable. • Proverbs 11:24-25: “One gives freely, yet grows all the richer… whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Job’s philanthropy flowed from his resources. Anchored in God’s Sovereignty • Job 1:21—after everything is taken, Job says, “The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” • True stewardship holds wealth loosely, ready to submit to God’s will without resentment. Practical Takeaways for Today • Recognize God as the ultimate owner; we manage what He entrusts. • Diversify and maintain assets with diligence and integrity. • Prioritize people over profits—employees, neighbors, the needy. • Use abundance to advance mercy and justice. • Hold possessions with an open hand, trusting God in both increase and loss. |
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