The concept of stewardship in the Bible extends beyond the management of material resources to encompass the spiritual responsibility of believers to cultivate and honor the presence of God in their lives and communities. This stewardship is rooted in the understanding that God's presence is a sacred trust, a gift to be cherished and nurtured.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible presents numerous instances where God's presence is central to the life and mission of His people. In the Old Testament, the presence of God is often associated with the Tabernacle and the Temple, where His glory dwelled among the Israelites. Exodus 25:8 states, "And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them." This verse underscores the importance of creating a space for God's presence, a task entrusted to the people of Israel.

In the New Testament, the concept of God's presence shifts from a physical location to a more personal and communal experience through the Holy Spirit. Jesus promises His disciples in John 14:16-17 , "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot receive Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you do know Him, for He abides with you and will be in you." Here, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit signifies the continual presence of God within believers, making them stewards of His presence.

Responsibilities of Stewardship

1. Cultivation of Holiness: Believers are called to live lives that reflect the holiness of God, as His presence dwells within them. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds Christians, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body." This passage emphasizes the responsibility to maintain purity and integrity as stewards of God's presence.

2. Worship and Reverence: Stewardship of God's presence involves a commitment to worship and reverence. Hebrews 12:28-29 exhorts believers, "Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. For our God is a consuming fire." Worship is both a response to and a means of stewarding the divine presence.

3. Community and Fellowship: The presence of God is not only a personal experience but also a communal one. Matthew 18:20 states, "For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them." This highlights the importance of fellowship and unity in the body of Christ as a means of stewarding God's presence collectively.

4. Mission and Witness: The stewardship of God's presence compels believers to be witnesses to the world. Acts 1:8 declares, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." The presence of God empowers believers to fulfill the Great Commission, sharing the gospel and extending His presence to others.

Challenges and Encouragements

Stewarding God's presence comes with challenges, including the distractions of the world, spiritual complacency, and the temptation to prioritize personal desires over divine purposes. However, Scripture provides encouragement and assurance. James 4:8 offers a promise, "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." This verse reassures believers that their efforts to steward God's presence will be met with His faithful nearness.

In summary, the stewardship of God's presence is a profound responsibility that encompasses personal holiness, communal worship, and active mission. It is a call to honor the indwelling Spirit and to live in a manner that reflects the glory and holiness of God.