CHAPTER 9: THE MYTH OF STEWARDSHIP
Stewardship is a blessing, the myth of stewardship is a trap. Thinking you are a good steward and being a good steward could be different. If it is, welcome to Chapter 9.
Webster’s dictionary defines stewardship as the careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one’s care. It also describes a “myth” as an unfounded or false notion. Chapter 9 is the myth that you are being a good steward. Flatly, I’m saying if that be correct, you’re wasting your time and if it’s me, I could be doing it in the name of God. Not groovy.
“I’m doing this or that because God would want me too.”
Be careful of that one. There is a God and you’re not it. Sure we are designated to help those in need. Make sure you are doing God’s work, not shirking your responsibilities. Many times all of us fall prey to selfish acts in the name of the Lord — as an excuse or distraction to get out of our responsibility.
Ephesians 5:15-17
New International Version
15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
Everybody on this phone is going to church, studying, praying and wanting a life in Christ. The Myth of Stewardship is a tool used precisely by the enemy to ruin you and me. A good christian is hunted by the enemy. Without constant training and awareness.., we may ‘THINK’ we are doing a good job, and that makes me an easy target.
John 10:10
New International Version
10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
The myth of stewardship is clearly fueled by ego, arrogance, lack of humility. We find ourselves congratulating the mirror, right? Giving ourselves credit, perhaps forgetting now and then to give all the credit to the Lord, not some of it, or part of it, all of it.
Philippians 2:3
New International Version
3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,
Christ created everything
We steward resources He gave us
2 Peter 3:18
New International Version
18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
With all that you and I have been given it makes perfect sense that in order to be better, keep growing, maturing, listening and learning, do all these things with an exceptional attitude.
2 Peter 1:5-8
5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;
6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;
7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.
8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I say “everything is everything.” Meaning everything you do is reflected in everything else you do. No matter what, I am a reflection of what I do, wherever I am, whenever I am, all the time, anytime.
- Be an employee or a leader. Choose, you can’t be both.
- Use the blessings that God has given you according to scripture.
- Never take on anything that will drain your funds or take you away from your responsibilities as a CEO.
- Common sense is not so common and stupid is very expensive.
I’m sure Judas thought he was doing a good job when he turned Christ over to the authorities. He didn’t realize until after the fact, how bad of an idea. Could he have been closer to Christ? I doubt it, he walked with the master and yet Satan still took him.
Luke 22:3-6
New International Version
3 Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. 4 And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus. 5 They were delighted and agreed to give him money. 6 He consented, and watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them when no crowd was present.
Chapter 9, Myth of Stewardship. It’s a big job, requires constant perseverance, attention and focus. We must stay ever vigilant. I remember back in the day, the rock-band “The Who,” reminds me of this chapter. Written way back in June 1971, but ever so mindful of today. Dig these lyrics.
“I’ll tip my hat to the new constitution
Take a bow for the new revolution
Smile and grin at the change all around
Pick up my guitar and play….
Just like yesterday
Then I’ll get on my knees and pray
We don’t get fooled again”
Pay attention my friends.., be aware. The bible is your “go-to” self help book. And in these turbulent times, the Word is vital to the salvation of all of us, our families, friends, the planet. The bible is the authentic, clear obligation handbook for a soldier of Christ. Be careful of what you listen to, read, use ..
Matthew 24:11
King James Version
11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.
2 Corinthians 2:11 New International Version (NIV)
11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.
So what exactly is the myth of stewardship? Simply put, in a word.
“Fraud”
“It’s much easier to pay attention, don’t you think?”
