Embrace Shrewd Stewardship: Building God’s Kingdom with Wisdom and Purpose

Ever Wonder How to Use Your Resources for God’s Glory?

Have you ever met someone who, despite their questionable ethics, impressed you with their cleverness? Maybe it was a coworker who always seemed to turn situations to their advantage or a friend who could navigate any challenge with ease. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus shares a parable about a shrewd manager that might leave us scratching our heads. Why would Jesus commend a dishonest manager? Let’s dive into this intriguing story and uncover the lessons it holds for us today.

The Shrewd Manager: A Lesson in Resourcefulness

In Luke 16:1-13, Jesus tells the story of a manager who, upon being fired for mismanaging his master’s wealth, devises a cunning plan to secure his future. He reduces the debts of his master’s clients, hoping to gain their favor and ensure his own survival. Surprisingly, the master commends the manager—not for his dishonesty, but for his shrewdness. This parable challenges us to consider how we use our own resources and talents.

As Christians, we are called to be stewards, not owners, of the gifts God has entrusted to us. Psalm 24:1 reminds us, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” Our time, talents, and treasures are not ours to squander but to manage wisely for God’s purposes. Jesus emphasizes this in Luke 16:10-12, urging us to be trustworthy stewards of both small and great things.

Money: A Terrible Master, A Useful Tool

Money, like all idols, can easily take hold of our hearts. Jesus warns us in Luke 16:13, “You cannot serve both God and money.” Money can provide a false sense of security, joy, and worth. It’s tempting to believe that more money will solve our problems or bring happiness, but true contentment comes from our relationship with God.

Reflect on your own life: Has money become an idol? Do you find yourself measuring your worth by your financial success? Remember, your value comes from being a beloved child of God, not from material wealth. As 1 Peter 2:9 declares, “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession.”

Applying Shrewdness for God’s Kingdom

The shrewd manager used his cunning for self-preservation, but Jesus calls us to apply our resourcefulness for a higher purpose. Imagine using your skills, whether in networking, leadership, or creativity, to further God’s kingdom. How can you invest your time and talents to make a lasting impact?

Consider the story of John and Maxine Smith, who funded a scholarship that allowed a young person to attend a Christian conference. That investment changed a life and inspired a call to ministry. Who might you impact with your shrewd investment of resources?

Practical Steps for Spiritual Growth

1. Evaluate Your Stewardship: Reflect on how you manage your time, talents, and treasures. Are you using them for God’s glory?
2. Identify Idols: Consider if money or other resources have taken a central place in your heart. Repent and seek God’s guidance to realign your priorities.
3. Invest in the Kingdom: Look for opportunities to use your skills and resources to support God’s work. Whether through financial giving, volunteering, or mentoring, your contributions can make a difference.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As followers of Christ, we are called to be wise stewards, using our resources to build God’s kingdom. Let’s embrace the shrewdness of the manager, not for personal gain, but to glorify God and serve others. Ask yourself, “What can I do now that will matter later?” and take steps to invest in what will last forever.

Prayer:

“Lord, teach us to be wise stewards of all you’ve entrusted to us. Help us to use our time, talents, and treasures for your glory. May we seek your kingdom first and find joy in serving you. Amen.”