Life Series: Financial Stewardship in His Way 

July 24, 2022

1) Preaching

In terms of money, most people want to have just a little bit more. Even young people opt for university programmes that may guarantee higher salaries or better prospects. Many Hongkongers aim for the 5Ps in their lives – prospect, profession, position, possessions and property. This culture tells us how important money is. However, it is even more important to know about money in God’s perspectives. When we understand God’s way, we will know how to manage all the things as a steward. Pastor Gavin preached about financial stewardship in God’s way based on Luke 6:38 and 1Corinthians 13:3. 

First, stewardship means we are not the owner. From the incident of Jesus feeding five thousand people with just five loaves and two fish, we know that Jesus is the provider and the one who multiplies because His disciples had to go back to Him to get the food and distribute to the people. Besides, God does not give us wealth directly, but gives us the power, wisdom, talents, time, etc. to get wealth, and we need to work diligently to get what He will give us. 

Second, stewardship means we are believers trusting Him. If we are faithful, God will affirm our faithfulness and expand what we have, and we can share the joy of our master. We have to be faithful with the small amount He entrusts to us first. Then, if God blesses us more, we have greater responsibility. It is also crucial to wait for the timing for the greater responsibility. We should realise that our real asset is not the wealth, but the abilities God gives us. Thus, we need to seek more of Jesus so that we have more anointing, wisdom and abilities from Him.

Third, stewardship means we are givers blessing Him. Giving is a worship to God. It pleases God when we have a giving spirit. The more we give, the more we receive, and through loving Jesus, we are able to give. Giving also grows our faith and it is an investment in our eternal home. We are never too poor to give if we see the value of the kingdom of God, just like the woman who gave her two only coins at the temple. God can multiply whatever in our hands.

With God’s presence and favour, we do not have to worry about having enough money or not, because God’s grace is sufficient for us !

2) Afternoon Workshop

Sister Elaine was the host of the workshop. Participants were divided into groups and discussed the following questions related to financial stewardship: 

1. Did you find out God’s perspectives on money from today’s preaching?
2. We have the freedom to use our money. As Christians, how do we view and manage our finances benefits us the most?
3. Do you agree that as a good steward, having the right attitudes and perspectives is more important than having the skills or procedures for financial management?
4. When we know all things are given by God, how do we view all these things?
5. Do you have any doubts or worries about money or financial management? Please share.

Brothers and sisters had a very fruitful sharing time. After that, each group reported on their discussions. Then pastors Gavin and Arlene shared their views on a few issues, including the importance of tithing, careful use of credit cards, motives of changing jobs, lending money and investment. Pastor Gavin ended the workshop with the Bible verse, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.” (Psalms 37:4) If we put our trust in God, He will not forget what we desire.

Thank God for the wonderful time !