What lessons about stewardship can we learn from Ecclesiastes 5:14? The Verse Ecclesiastes 5:14: “wealth lost in a bad venture, so when he has a son, there is nothing left to him.” Key Observations • The riches once possessed are now completely gone. • The loss comes through a “bad venture” — an unwise, risky undertaking. • The consequence is generational: the next generation inherits lack instead of provision. Lessons About Stewardship • Stewardship demands discernment – Not every opportunity is from God; testing motives and methods (1 John 4:1) protects resources entrusted to us. • Risk is real and must be managed – Proverbs 27:12: “A prudent man foresees danger and hides himself, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” • Wealth is temporary; wisdom is lasting – Proverbs 8:11: “Wisdom is better than jewels.” Wise choices safeguard future ministry and family needs. • Provision for those who follow us is part of faithful stewardship – 2 Corinthians 12:14: “Children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.” • Hoarding and haste both harm – Ecclesiastes 5:13 warns about hoarding; verse 14 warns about reckless loss. Balanced, purposeful management honors the Lord (Proverbs 30:8-9). • God, not wealth, is the security of the righteous – 1 Timothy 6:17: “Command those who are rich… not to put their hope in wealth, which is uncertain, but in God.” Complementary Scriptures • Proverbs 21:5: “The plans of the diligent bring abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes to poverty.” • Luke 14:28-30: the builder counts the cost before laying the foundation. • Matthew 25:14-30: faithful servants invest the master’s resources wisely, aware of accountability. Practicing Wise Stewardship Today 1. Pray for wisdom before committing funds. 2. Seek counsel from seasoned, godly advisers (Proverbs 15:22). 3. Diversify rather than gamble; avoid ventures driven by greed. 4. Budget with eternity in view: allocate for giving, saving, and responsible enjoyment. 5. Teach children biblical money principles so they inherit both provision and wisdom. |
    |