How can we ensure our "supplies" are used for God's glory today? Root Verse 1 Peter 4:10–11: “As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another… so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.” Seeing Our Supplies Through God’s Eyes • Everything in hand—money, food, tools, talents, time—is a trust from the Lord (Psalm 24:1). • Stewardship means we manage what He owns; we never become ultimate owners (1 Chronicles 29:14). • The goal is “in all things God may be glorified,” not personal comfort or applause (Colossians 3:17). Guiding Principles for Glorifying God with Our Supplies • Dedication: Consciously set every resource apart for His purposes (Proverbs 3:9). • Service: Channel supplies toward meeting genuine needs of others (Acts 20:35; James 2:15-16). • Generosity: Hold goods with an open hand, reflecting God’s open heart (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Excellence: Use resources wisely and skillfully, because waste misrepresents His character (Proverbs 21:5). • Accountability: Remember we will give an account to the Master Steward (Romans 14:12). Practical Ways to Implement Today 1. Inventory and Intentions • List key assets—income, schedule blocks, abilities, possessions. • Write a brief statement of how each can further kingdom priorities. 2. First-Portion Giving • Prioritize giving before spending (2 Corinthians 8:5). • Automate or earmark a percentage for church and missions. 3. Budgeting for Blessing • Allocate a “mercy margin” in the budget specifically for spontaneous needs (Luke 10:33-35). • Review quarterly to adjust toward maximum impact. 4. Hospitality Habits • Open the home for fellowship, Bible study, or refuge (1 Peter 4:9). • Keep extra meals or gift cards on hand for quick outreach. 5. Skill Deployment • Offer professional abilities—plumbing, tutoring, design—to serve the body of Christ (Exodus 36:2). • Join or form ministry teams that match your expertise. 6. Sustainable Stewardship • Maintain possessions so they last and stay useful (Proverbs 27:23-24). • Recycle or repurpose items for others rather than discarding. Encouraging Biblical Snapshots • Boy with five loaves and two fish—small supply multiplied when placed in Jesus’ hands (John 6:9-13). • Lydia’s open home—business resources advancing the gospel in Philippi (Acts 16:14-15, 40). • The Macedonian churches—extreme poverty overflowed in rich generosity (2 Corinthians 8:1-4). Walking It Out Supplies surrendered, stewarded, and shared become vivid testimonies of God’s goodness. As we continually align every possession and opportunity with the clear aim of magnifying Christ, we fulfill Peter’s charge and showcase to a watching world that He alone deserves the glory. |
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