10 Bible Verses About Stewardship of Money
God blesses His people with many resources, including money, but that blessing comes with the responsibility of using it for God's glory. After all, everything comes from Him.
10 Bible Verses About Stewardship of Money
God blesses His people with many resources, including money, but that blessing comes with the responsibility of using it for God's glory. After all, everything comes from Him. Therefore, Christians must use their gifts by His will (1 Corinthians 4:7), being good stewards or "caretakers" of what God has entrusted.
This stewardship extends beyond mere financial management; it encompasses a broader mandate to steward the earth and its resources, reflecting our role as caretakers of God's creation. Christians are called to allocate funds wisely to further God's work, ensuring that our giving supports the spread of the Gospel!
In our stewardship, we are also tasked with multiplying the gifts God has given us through effort and investment, whether those gifts are talents, time, or treasure. Accountability is key, as we must account for our stewardship actions, demonstrating transparency and integrity.
Thankfully, the Bible has a lot to say about how Christians should handle their money and possessions. Here are Bible verses about money stewardship – keep reading to learn how God wants Christians to handle their worldly gains.
What is Biblical Stewardship?
Biblical stewardship is deeply rooted in the teachings and principles found throughout Scripture. It encompasses the idea that all resources and possessions are entrusted to us by God, and it is our duty to manage them with wisdom and integrity. This stewardship is not merely about financial management but extends to every aspect of life, reflecting our relationship with God and our responsibilities towards His creation.
God-honoring stewardship is the foundation of this concept, emphasizing that our management of resources should reflect our reverence and love for God. It's about recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God and should be used in ways that honor Him and further His kingdom.
Here are a few key aspects of Biblical stewardship:
Wise management involves making prudent decisions that align with God's will, ensuring that resources are not wasted but used efficiently and effectively. It means being thoughtful and discerning about how we allocate our time, talents, and treasures.
Generous giving is a key aspect of biblical stewardship, highlighting the importance of sharing our blessings with others. It's about giving freely and joyfully, not out of obligation or for recognition, but out of a genuine desire to help and serve those in need.
Faithful service reflects the steward's commitment to serving God and others with loyalty and dedication. It's about using our abilities and resources to serve the church, community, and the world, embodying the love and compassion of Christ in our actions.
Responsible allocation involves the careful and ethical distribution of resources, ensuring they are used in ways that align with Christian values and principles. It's about stewardship that is not only efficient but also just and fair, taking into account the needs of others and the impact on God's creation.
Diligent investment speaks to the importance of investing our resources in ways that yield positive, godly returns. This includes investing time in relationships, talents in service, and finances in kingdom-building endeavors, always seeking to produce fruit that glorifies God.
Grateful receiving acknowledges that everything we receive is from God's hand. It's about receiving with humility and gratitude, recognizing the generosity of God in our lives and responding with a thankful heart.
Purposeful sharing extends the concept of stewardship beyond individual gain, focusing on the communal and collective aspect of sharing God's blessings. It's about creating a culture of generosity, where resources are shared with purpose and intention, promoting the well-being of the community and the advancement of the Gospel.
Transparent accounting is vital in maintaining integrity and trustworthiness in stewardship. It involves being open and honest about how resources are managed and used, ensuring accountability and fostering trust within the Christian community and beyond.
Sustainable preservation of God's creation is an integral part of stewardship. It reflects a commitment to managing natural resources wisely, ensuring that the environment is protected and preserved for future generations, in line with God's mandate to care for the earth.
Spirit-led guidance is essential in biblical stewardship, as it involves seeking and following the leading of the Holy Spirit in decision-making. This ensures that our stewardship aligns with God's will and purposes, leading to decisions that honor Him and advance His kingdom.
Kingdom-focused use of resources ensures that the primary goal of stewardship is to further the work of God's kingdom. It means prioritizing the spread of the Gospel and the growth of the church over personal gain or secular achievements.
Finally, environmental care as part of stewardship recognizes the biblical mandate to steward the earth. It involves actions that protect and restore the environment, acknowledging that creation is a precious gift from God to be respected and cared for.
Importance of Stewardship
The concept of biblical stewardship is not only a personal responsibility but a crucial aspect of Christian living that has far-reaching implications. It is about managing all aspects of life according to God's principles, leading to a multitude of benefits and positive outcomes, both in the present and for eternity.
Here are several key outcomes of Biblical stewardship:
- Effective multiplying of resources is a significant outcome of biblical stewardship. By wisely managing and investing what God has entrusted to us, we can see growth not just in material wealth but in spiritual and relational assets as well, contributing to the expansion of God's kingdom.
- Next, Biblical stewardship allows for proactive providing–anticipating needs and acting in advance to meet them, reflecting the proactive nature of God's love. This can be seen in efforts to address poverty, injustice, and other social issues in a way that reflects Christ's compassion and mercy.
- Effective stewardship can also lead to greater community support, by using resources to support and uplift others, fostering a sense of unity, love, and mutual support that reflects the nature of the early Christian community.
- When you steward your resources better, you’re able to engage in intentional blessing. This goes beyond random acts of kindness, involving strategic and thoughtful use of time, talents, and treasures to make a positive impact on individuals and communities.
- Finally, eternal reward reminds us that biblical stewardship has not only temporal but eternal implications. The way we manage the resources God has entrusted to us can impact our eternal destiny, with rewards in heaven promised for faithfulness in stewardship on earth.
Verses About the Meaning of Stewardship
The kind of stewardship mentioned in the Bible is different from how most of us understand it today. For example, when the Bible talks about being a steward of your possessions, it’s not talking about how you manage what’s yours. Instead, it emphasizes that everything ultimately belongs to God: "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it" (Psalm 24:1).
Scripture on stewardship of money clarifies that God is the owner of everything. In fact, He owns people themselves – not just their possessions! That’s why the Bible is clear on the stewardship of money, illustrating how Christians should use those blessings to bring Him glory:
- Psalm 50:7, 8-11: “Listen, my people, and I will speak… I bring no charges against you concerning your sacrifices or concerning your burnt offerings, which are ever before me. I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine.”
- Haggai 2:7-9: “‘I will shake all nations, and what is desired by all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘And in this place I will grant peace,’ declares the Lord Almighty.”
- 1 Chronicles 29:12-14: “Wealth and honor come from You; You are the ruler of all things. In Your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give You thanks, and praise Your glorious name. But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from your hand.”
These verses show that everything belongs to God, including our money and possessions. Christians are merely stewards of His resources and are responsible for using them wisely and for His glory. Through actions, we can give thanks for all the blessings He constantly provides.
Free online giving tools for your church
Tithely provides the best online tools to help you increase generosity, manage your church, and engage your church members.
Sign Up Free
Verses About Being a Good Steward
Being a steward means being responsible for something that doesn't belong to you. In the context of money, Christians are responsible for managing the worldly riches God has generously provided.
Here are a few Bible verses about the stewardship of money and being a good steward:
- Hebrews 13:5: "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
- 1 Timothy 6:17: "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”
- Deuteronomy 15:9-10: “Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought: ‘The seventh year, the year for canceling debts, is near,’ so that you do not show ill will toward the needy among your fellow Israelites and give them nothing… Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.”
- Luke 16:9-11: “I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. ‘Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?’”
- Proverbs 3:6, 9-10: “In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
God expects His stewards to be faithful and trustworthy. Therefore, Christians are called to look to Him as their Master – not money (Matthew 6:24). Anybody who becomes careless with how they handle their God-given blessings will be held accountable.
Verses About Stewardship of Non-Money Items
While the Bible talks about money a lot, it's important to note that stewardship is more than just finances.
One way to think about it is this: imagine you are invited to a friend's house for dinner. While you're there, your friend asks you to watch her dog while she goes out for a bit. You agree, and she hands over the leash. Now, even though the dog isn't yours, you are responsible for taking care of it while your friend is away. You are its steward.
Here are more Bible verses on how Christians can be good stewards with non-monetary possessions:
- Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
- Luke 12:13-15: "‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.’ Jesus replied, ‘Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?’ Then He said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.’”
- Luke 3:11: “John answered, ‘Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.’”
Christians are called to use their time, talents, and abilities wisely and make the most of every opportunity to bring glory to God. In all things, Christians should take God's blessings seriously and fully commit to serving Him, following the stewardship examples of Biblical characters that came before.
Stewardship Verses Related to Talents
The Bible speaks extensively about the stewardship of talents, which can refer to skills, abilities, and spiritual gifts. These verses emphasize the importance of recognizing our talents as gifts from God and the need to use them wisely and diligently for His glory and the benefit of others.
- Matthew 25:14-30 (Parable of the Talents): This parable highlights the importance of using our God-given talents wisely. The master entrusts his servants with talents, and upon his return, he rewards those who have invested and multiplied them, while the one who hid his talent is reprimanded. This teaches us that God expects us to use and grow the abilities He has given us.
- 1 Peter 4:10: "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." This verse encourages believers to use their diverse gifts in service to one another, reflecting the manifold grace of God.
- Romans 12:6-8: In this passage, Paul speaks about different gifts given to believers by the grace of God, including prophesying, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, and showing mercy. He emphasizes using these gifts in proportion to our faith, highlighting the importance of stewarding our talents in a way that is consistent with our belief in God.
- Ephesians 4:11-13: Here, Paul lists gifts Christ gave to the church, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. The purpose of these gifts is to equip God's people for works of service, building up the body of Christ until we reach unity in faith and knowledge of Jesus.
Stewardship Verses Related to Time
Time is another critical resource that the Bible instructs us to steward carefully. The following verses remind us of the value of time and the importance of using it wisely, in ways that honor God and fulfill His purposes.
- Ephesians 5:15-16: "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." This passage advises believers to live wisely and make the most of their time, recognizing the moral challenges of the days in which we live.
- Psalm 90:12: "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." This prayer from Moses asks God to help us understand the brevity of life so that we might live wisely, with a perspective that values eternal things over temporal ones.
- Colossians 4:5: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity." This verse encourages believers to use their time wisely, especially in their interactions with non-believers, seizing opportunities to reflect Christ in their actions.
- James 4:14: "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." James reminds us of the fleeting nature of life, urging us to be mindful of how we spend our time, knowing that our days on earth are limited and precious.
Being a Godly Steward of Our Blessings
The Bible has a lot to say about stewardship. Christians are called to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to His people – including time, talents, and finances. In turn, Christians are to use His resources wisely and for His glory. When that happens, God promises to bless us with more (John 13:17).A note for church leaders: Using the right tools and technology is one way to steward the community and financial resources God has blessed us with. Check out this list of church management tools to learn more.
Sign Up for Product Updates
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does the Bible Say About Being Good Stewards?
The Bible teaches the principles of stewardship by encouraging believers to manage possessions wisely, entrust resources to faithful stewards, and invest their talents for kingdom growth. Scriptures highlight the significance of using all that God has given us—our time, talents, and treasures—in ways that honor God with all resources. For instance, the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) not only advocates for the diligent multiplication of our gifts but also underscores the importance of being accountable for the resources entrusted to us by God.
Who in the Bible was a Good Steward?
Joseph, son of Jacob, stands out as a paradigm of good stewardship in the Bible. His story, from managing Potiphar's household to overseeing Egypt's grain stores, exemplifies how to manage possessions wisely and entrust resources to faithful stewards. Joseph's ability to save Egypt and its neighboring countries from famine by wisely storing and distributing grain during years of abundance demonstrates the impact of godly stewardship and the importance of preparing and providing for future needs.
Why Does God Want Us to Be Stewards?
God desires us to be stewards so we can teach the principles of stewardship to others, serve others with love and humility, and share blessings with the community. Stewardship is a way to give generously to those in need, reflecting God's generosity towards us. By entrusting us with His resources, God invites us to participate in His divine plan, allowing us to contribute to the well-being of others and the growth of His kingdom. Through stewardship, we learn to live out our faith in practical ways, making a tangible difference in the world around us while growing closer to God
Sign Up for Product Updates
Tithely provides the tools you need to engage with your church online, stay connected, increase generosity, and simplify the lives of your staff.
With tools like text and email messaging, custom church apps and websites, church management software, digital giving, and so much more… it’s no wonder why over 37,000 churches in 50 countries trust Tithely to help run their church.
10 Bible Verses About Stewardship of Money
God blesses His people with many resources, including money, but that blessing comes with the responsibility of using it for God's glory. After all, everything comes from Him. Therefore, Christians must use their gifts by His will (1 Corinthians 4:7), being good stewards or "caretakers" of what God has entrusted.
This stewardship extends beyond mere financial management; it encompasses a broader mandate to steward the earth and its resources, reflecting our role as caretakers of God's creation. Christians are called to allocate funds wisely to further God's work, ensuring that our giving supports the spread of the Gospel!
In our stewardship, we are also tasked with multiplying the gifts God has given us through effort and investment, whether those gifts are talents, time, or treasure. Accountability is key, as we must account for our stewardship actions, demonstrating transparency and integrity.
Thankfully, the Bible has a lot to say about how Christians should handle their money and possessions. Here are Bible verses about money stewardship – keep reading to learn how God wants Christians to handle their worldly gains.
What is Biblical Stewardship?
Biblical stewardship is deeply rooted in the teachings and principles found throughout Scripture. It encompasses the idea that all resources and possessions are entrusted to us by God, and it is our duty to manage them with wisdom and integrity. This stewardship is not merely about financial management but extends to every aspect of life, reflecting our relationship with God and our responsibilities towards His creation.
God-honoring stewardship is the foundation of this concept, emphasizing that our management of resources should reflect our reverence and love for God. It's about recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God and should be used in ways that honor Him and further His kingdom.
Here are a few key aspects of Biblical stewardship:
Wise management involves making prudent decisions that align with God's will, ensuring that resources are not wasted but used efficiently and effectively. It means being thoughtful and discerning about how we allocate our time, talents, and treasures.
Generous giving is a key aspect of biblical stewardship, highlighting the importance of sharing our blessings with others. It's about giving freely and joyfully, not out of obligation or for recognition, but out of a genuine desire to help and serve those in need.
Faithful service reflects the steward's commitment to serving God and others with loyalty and dedication. It's about using our abilities and resources to serve the church, community, and the world, embodying the love and compassion of Christ in our actions.
Responsible allocation involves the careful and ethical distribution of resources, ensuring they are used in ways that align with Christian values and principles. It's about stewardship that is not only efficient but also just and fair, taking into account the needs of others and the impact on God's creation.
Diligent investment speaks to the importance of investing our resources in ways that yield positive, godly returns. This includes investing time in relationships, talents in service, and finances in kingdom-building endeavors, always seeking to produce fruit that glorifies God.
Grateful receiving acknowledges that everything we receive is from God's hand. It's about receiving with humility and gratitude, recognizing the generosity of God in our lives and responding with a thankful heart.
Purposeful sharing extends the concept of stewardship beyond individual gain, focusing on the communal and collective aspect of sharing God's blessings. It's about creating a culture of generosity, where resources are shared with purpose and intention, promoting the well-being of the community and the advancement of the Gospel.
Transparent accounting is vital in maintaining integrity and trustworthiness in stewardship. It involves being open and honest about how resources are managed and used, ensuring accountability and fostering trust within the Christian community and beyond.
Sustainable preservation of God's creation is an integral part of stewardship. It reflects a commitment to managing natural resources wisely, ensuring that the environment is protected and preserved for future generations, in line with God's mandate to care for the earth.
Spirit-led guidance is essential in biblical stewardship, as it involves seeking and following the leading of the Holy Spirit in decision-making. This ensures that our stewardship aligns with God's will and purposes, leading to decisions that honor Him and advance His kingdom.
Kingdom-focused use of resources ensures that the primary goal of stewardship is to further the work of God's kingdom. It means prioritizing the spread of the Gospel and the growth of the church over personal gain or secular achievements.
Finally, environmental care as part of stewardship recognizes the biblical mandate to steward the earth. It involves actions that protect and restore the environment, acknowledging that creation is a precious gift from God to be respected and cared for.
Importance of Stewardship
The concept of biblical stewardship is not only a personal responsibility but a crucial aspect of Christian living that has far-reaching implications. It is about managing all aspects of life according to God's principles, leading to a multitude of benefits and positive outcomes, both in the present and for eternity.
Here are several key outcomes of Biblical stewardship:
- Effective multiplying of resources is a significant outcome of biblical stewardship. By wisely managing and investing what God has entrusted to us, we can see growth not just in material wealth but in spiritual and relational assets as well, contributing to the expansion of God's kingdom.
- Next, Biblical stewardship allows for proactive providing–anticipating needs and acting in advance to meet them, reflecting the proactive nature of God's love. This can be seen in efforts to address poverty, injustice, and other social issues in a way that reflects Christ's compassion and mercy.
- Effective stewardship can also lead to greater community support, by using resources to support and uplift others, fostering a sense of unity, love, and mutual support that reflects the nature of the early Christian community.
- When you steward your resources better, you’re able to engage in intentional blessing. This goes beyond random acts of kindness, involving strategic and thoughtful use of time, talents, and treasures to make a positive impact on individuals and communities.
- Finally, eternal reward reminds us that biblical stewardship has not only temporal but eternal implications. The way we manage the resources God has entrusted to us can impact our eternal destiny, with rewards in heaven promised for faithfulness in stewardship on earth.
Verses About the Meaning of Stewardship
The kind of stewardship mentioned in the Bible is different from how most of us understand it today. For example, when the Bible talks about being a steward of your possessions, it’s not talking about how you manage what’s yours. Instead, it emphasizes that everything ultimately belongs to God: "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it" (Psalm 24:1).
Scripture on stewardship of money clarifies that God is the owner of everything. In fact, He owns people themselves – not just their possessions! That’s why the Bible is clear on the stewardship of money, illustrating how Christians should use those blessings to bring Him glory:
- Psalm 50:7, 8-11: “Listen, my people, and I will speak… I bring no charges against you concerning your sacrifices or concerning your burnt offerings, which are ever before me. I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine.”
- Haggai 2:7-9: “‘I will shake all nations, and what is desired by all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘And in this place I will grant peace,’ declares the Lord Almighty.”
- 1 Chronicles 29:12-14: “Wealth and honor come from You; You are the ruler of all things. In Your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give You thanks, and praise Your glorious name. But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from your hand.”
These verses show that everything belongs to God, including our money and possessions. Christians are merely stewards of His resources and are responsible for using them wisely and for His glory. Through actions, we can give thanks for all the blessings He constantly provides.
Free online giving tools for your church
Tithely provides the best online tools to help you increase generosity, manage your church, and engage your church members.
Sign Up FreeVerses About Being a Good Steward
Being a steward means being responsible for something that doesn't belong to you. In the context of money, Christians are responsible for managing the worldly riches God has generously provided.
Here are a few Bible verses about the stewardship of money and being a good steward:
- Hebrews 13:5: "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
- 1 Timothy 6:17: "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”
- Deuteronomy 15:9-10: “Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought: ‘The seventh year, the year for canceling debts, is near,’ so that you do not show ill will toward the needy among your fellow Israelites and give them nothing… Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.”
- Luke 16:9-11: “I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. ‘Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?’”
- Proverbs 3:6, 9-10: “In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
God expects His stewards to be faithful and trustworthy. Therefore, Christians are called to look to Him as their Master – not money (Matthew 6:24). Anybody who becomes careless with how they handle their God-given blessings will be held accountable.
Verses About Stewardship of Non-Money Items
While the Bible talks about money a lot, it's important to note that stewardship is more than just finances.
One way to think about it is this: imagine you are invited to a friend's house for dinner. While you're there, your friend asks you to watch her dog while she goes out for a bit. You agree, and she hands over the leash. Now, even though the dog isn't yours, you are responsible for taking care of it while your friend is away. You are its steward.
Here are more Bible verses on how Christians can be good stewards with non-monetary possessions:
- Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
- Luke 12:13-15: "‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.’ Jesus replied, ‘Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?’ Then He said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.’”
- Luke 3:11: “John answered, ‘Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.’”
Christians are called to use their time, talents, and abilities wisely and make the most of every opportunity to bring glory to God. In all things, Christians should take God's blessings seriously and fully commit to serving Him, following the stewardship examples of Biblical characters that came before.
Stewardship Verses Related to Talents
The Bible speaks extensively about the stewardship of talents, which can refer to skills, abilities, and spiritual gifts. These verses emphasize the importance of recognizing our talents as gifts from God and the need to use them wisely and diligently for His glory and the benefit of others.
- Matthew 25:14-30 (Parable of the Talents): This parable highlights the importance of using our God-given talents wisely. The master entrusts his servants with talents, and upon his return, he rewards those who have invested and multiplied them, while the one who hid his talent is reprimanded. This teaches us that God expects us to use and grow the abilities He has given us.
- 1 Peter 4:10: "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." This verse encourages believers to use their diverse gifts in service to one another, reflecting the manifold grace of God.
- Romans 12:6-8: In this passage, Paul speaks about different gifts given to believers by the grace of God, including prophesying, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, and showing mercy. He emphasizes using these gifts in proportion to our faith, highlighting the importance of stewarding our talents in a way that is consistent with our belief in God.
- Ephesians 4:11-13: Here, Paul lists gifts Christ gave to the church, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. The purpose of these gifts is to equip God's people for works of service, building up the body of Christ until we reach unity in faith and knowledge of Jesus.
Stewardship Verses Related to Time
Time is another critical resource that the Bible instructs us to steward carefully. The following verses remind us of the value of time and the importance of using it wisely, in ways that honor God and fulfill His purposes.
- Ephesians 5:15-16: "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." This passage advises believers to live wisely and make the most of their time, recognizing the moral challenges of the days in which we live.
- Psalm 90:12: "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." This prayer from Moses asks God to help us understand the brevity of life so that we might live wisely, with a perspective that values eternal things over temporal ones.
- Colossians 4:5: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity." This verse encourages believers to use their time wisely, especially in their interactions with non-believers, seizing opportunities to reflect Christ in their actions.
- James 4:14: "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." James reminds us of the fleeting nature of life, urging us to be mindful of how we spend our time, knowing that our days on earth are limited and precious.
Being a Godly Steward of Our Blessings
The Bible has a lot to say about stewardship. Christians are called to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to His people – including time, talents, and finances. In turn, Christians are to use His resources wisely and for His glory. When that happens, God promises to bless us with more (John 13:17).A note for church leaders: Using the right tools and technology is one way to steward the community and financial resources God has blessed us with. Check out this list of church management tools to learn more.
Sign Up for Product Updates
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does the Bible Say About Being Good Stewards?
The Bible teaches the principles of stewardship by encouraging believers to manage possessions wisely, entrust resources to faithful stewards, and invest their talents for kingdom growth. Scriptures highlight the significance of using all that God has given us—our time, talents, and treasures—in ways that honor God with all resources. For instance, the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) not only advocates for the diligent multiplication of our gifts but also underscores the importance of being accountable for the resources entrusted to us by God.
Who in the Bible was a Good Steward?
Joseph, son of Jacob, stands out as a paradigm of good stewardship in the Bible. His story, from managing Potiphar's household to overseeing Egypt's grain stores, exemplifies how to manage possessions wisely and entrust resources to faithful stewards. Joseph's ability to save Egypt and its neighboring countries from famine by wisely storing and distributing grain during years of abundance demonstrates the impact of godly stewardship and the importance of preparing and providing for future needs.
Why Does God Want Us to Be Stewards?
God desires us to be stewards so we can teach the principles of stewardship to others, serve others with love and humility, and share blessings with the community. Stewardship is a way to give generously to those in need, reflecting God's generosity towards us. By entrusting us with His resources, God invites us to participate in His divine plan, allowing us to contribute to the well-being of others and the growth of His kingdom. Through stewardship, we learn to live out our faith in practical ways, making a tangible difference in the world around us while growing closer to God
podcast transcript
Tithely provides the tools you need to engage with your church online, stay connected, increase generosity, and simplify the lives of your staff.
With tools like text and email messaging, custom church apps and websites, church management software, digital giving, and so much more… it’s no wonder why over 37,000 churches in 50 countries trust Tithely to help run their church.
10 Bible Verses About Stewardship of Money
God blesses His people with many resources, including money, but that blessing comes with the responsibility of using it for God's glory. After all, everything comes from Him. Therefore, Christians must use their gifts by His will (1 Corinthians 4:7), being good stewards or "caretakers" of what God has entrusted.
This stewardship extends beyond mere financial management; it encompasses a broader mandate to steward the earth and its resources, reflecting our role as caretakers of God's creation. Christians are called to allocate funds wisely to further God's work, ensuring that our giving supports the spread of the Gospel!
In our stewardship, we are also tasked with multiplying the gifts God has given us through effort and investment, whether those gifts are talents, time, or treasure. Accountability is key, as we must account for our stewardship actions, demonstrating transparency and integrity.
Thankfully, the Bible has a lot to say about how Christians should handle their money and possessions. Here are Bible verses about money stewardship – keep reading to learn how God wants Christians to handle their worldly gains.
What is Biblical Stewardship?
Biblical stewardship is deeply rooted in the teachings and principles found throughout Scripture. It encompasses the idea that all resources and possessions are entrusted to us by God, and it is our duty to manage them with wisdom and integrity. This stewardship is not merely about financial management but extends to every aspect of life, reflecting our relationship with God and our responsibilities towards His creation.
God-honoring stewardship is the foundation of this concept, emphasizing that our management of resources should reflect our reverence and love for God. It's about recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God and should be used in ways that honor Him and further His kingdom.
Here are a few key aspects of Biblical stewardship:
Wise management involves making prudent decisions that align with God's will, ensuring that resources are not wasted but used efficiently and effectively. It means being thoughtful and discerning about how we allocate our time, talents, and treasures.
Generous giving is a key aspect of biblical stewardship, highlighting the importance of sharing our blessings with others. It's about giving freely and joyfully, not out of obligation or for recognition, but out of a genuine desire to help and serve those in need.
Faithful service reflects the steward's commitment to serving God and others with loyalty and dedication. It's about using our abilities and resources to serve the church, community, and the world, embodying the love and compassion of Christ in our actions.
Responsible allocation involves the careful and ethical distribution of resources, ensuring they are used in ways that align with Christian values and principles. It's about stewardship that is not only efficient but also just and fair, taking into account the needs of others and the impact on God's creation.
Diligent investment speaks to the importance of investing our resources in ways that yield positive, godly returns. This includes investing time in relationships, talents in service, and finances in kingdom-building endeavors, always seeking to produce fruit that glorifies God.
Grateful receiving acknowledges that everything we receive is from God's hand. It's about receiving with humility and gratitude, recognizing the generosity of God in our lives and responding with a thankful heart.
Purposeful sharing extends the concept of stewardship beyond individual gain, focusing on the communal and collective aspect of sharing God's blessings. It's about creating a culture of generosity, where resources are shared with purpose and intention, promoting the well-being of the community and the advancement of the Gospel.
Transparent accounting is vital in maintaining integrity and trustworthiness in stewardship. It involves being open and honest about how resources are managed and used, ensuring accountability and fostering trust within the Christian community and beyond.
Sustainable preservation of God's creation is an integral part of stewardship. It reflects a commitment to managing natural resources wisely, ensuring that the environment is protected and preserved for future generations, in line with God's mandate to care for the earth.
Spirit-led guidance is essential in biblical stewardship, as it involves seeking and following the leading of the Holy Spirit in decision-making. This ensures that our stewardship aligns with God's will and purposes, leading to decisions that honor Him and advance His kingdom.
Kingdom-focused use of resources ensures that the primary goal of stewardship is to further the work of God's kingdom. It means prioritizing the spread of the Gospel and the growth of the church over personal gain or secular achievements.
Finally, environmental care as part of stewardship recognizes the biblical mandate to steward the earth. It involves actions that protect and restore the environment, acknowledging that creation is a precious gift from God to be respected and cared for.
Importance of Stewardship
The concept of biblical stewardship is not only a personal responsibility but a crucial aspect of Christian living that has far-reaching implications. It is about managing all aspects of life according to God's principles, leading to a multitude of benefits and positive outcomes, both in the present and for eternity.
Here are several key outcomes of Biblical stewardship:
- Effective multiplying of resources is a significant outcome of biblical stewardship. By wisely managing and investing what God has entrusted to us, we can see growth not just in material wealth but in spiritual and relational assets as well, contributing to the expansion of God's kingdom.
- Next, Biblical stewardship allows for proactive providing–anticipating needs and acting in advance to meet them, reflecting the proactive nature of God's love. This can be seen in efforts to address poverty, injustice, and other social issues in a way that reflects Christ's compassion and mercy.
- Effective stewardship can also lead to greater community support, by using resources to support and uplift others, fostering a sense of unity, love, and mutual support that reflects the nature of the early Christian community.
- When you steward your resources better, you’re able to engage in intentional blessing. This goes beyond random acts of kindness, involving strategic and thoughtful use of time, talents, and treasures to make a positive impact on individuals and communities.
- Finally, eternal reward reminds us that biblical stewardship has not only temporal but eternal implications. The way we manage the resources God has entrusted to us can impact our eternal destiny, with rewards in heaven promised for faithfulness in stewardship on earth.
Verses About the Meaning of Stewardship
The kind of stewardship mentioned in the Bible is different from how most of us understand it today. For example, when the Bible talks about being a steward of your possessions, it’s not talking about how you manage what’s yours. Instead, it emphasizes that everything ultimately belongs to God: "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it" (Psalm 24:1).
Scripture on stewardship of money clarifies that God is the owner of everything. In fact, He owns people themselves – not just their possessions! That’s why the Bible is clear on the stewardship of money, illustrating how Christians should use those blessings to bring Him glory:
- Psalm 50:7, 8-11: “Listen, my people, and I will speak… I bring no charges against you concerning your sacrifices or concerning your burnt offerings, which are ever before me. I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine.”
- Haggai 2:7-9: “‘I will shake all nations, and what is desired by all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘And in this place I will grant peace,’ declares the Lord Almighty.”
- 1 Chronicles 29:12-14: “Wealth and honor come from You; You are the ruler of all things. In Your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give You thanks, and praise Your glorious name. But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from your hand.”
These verses show that everything belongs to God, including our money and possessions. Christians are merely stewards of His resources and are responsible for using them wisely and for His glory. Through actions, we can give thanks for all the blessings He constantly provides.
Free online giving tools for your church
Tithely provides the best online tools to help you increase generosity, manage your church, and engage your church members.
Sign Up FreeVerses About Being a Good Steward
Being a steward means being responsible for something that doesn't belong to you. In the context of money, Christians are responsible for managing the worldly riches God has generously provided.
Here are a few Bible verses about the stewardship of money and being a good steward:
- Hebrews 13:5: "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
- 1 Timothy 6:17: "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”
- Deuteronomy 15:9-10: “Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought: ‘The seventh year, the year for canceling debts, is near,’ so that you do not show ill will toward the needy among your fellow Israelites and give them nothing… Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.”
- Luke 16:9-11: “I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. ‘Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?’”
- Proverbs 3:6, 9-10: “In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
God expects His stewards to be faithful and trustworthy. Therefore, Christians are called to look to Him as their Master – not money (Matthew 6:24). Anybody who becomes careless with how they handle their God-given blessings will be held accountable.
Verses About Stewardship of Non-Money Items
While the Bible talks about money a lot, it's important to note that stewardship is more than just finances.
One way to think about it is this: imagine you are invited to a friend's house for dinner. While you're there, your friend asks you to watch her dog while she goes out for a bit. You agree, and she hands over the leash. Now, even though the dog isn't yours, you are responsible for taking care of it while your friend is away. You are its steward.
Here are more Bible verses on how Christians can be good stewards with non-monetary possessions:
- Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
- Luke 12:13-15: "‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.’ Jesus replied, ‘Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?’ Then He said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.’”
- Luke 3:11: “John answered, ‘Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.’”
Christians are called to use their time, talents, and abilities wisely and make the most of every opportunity to bring glory to God. In all things, Christians should take God's blessings seriously and fully commit to serving Him, following the stewardship examples of Biblical characters that came before.
Stewardship Verses Related to Talents
The Bible speaks extensively about the stewardship of talents, which can refer to skills, abilities, and spiritual gifts. These verses emphasize the importance of recognizing our talents as gifts from God and the need to use them wisely and diligently for His glory and the benefit of others.
- Matthew 25:14-30 (Parable of the Talents): This parable highlights the importance of using our God-given talents wisely. The master entrusts his servants with talents, and upon his return, he rewards those who have invested and multiplied them, while the one who hid his talent is reprimanded. This teaches us that God expects us to use and grow the abilities He has given us.
- 1 Peter 4:10: "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." This verse encourages believers to use their diverse gifts in service to one another, reflecting the manifold grace of God.
- Romans 12:6-8: In this passage, Paul speaks about different gifts given to believers by the grace of God, including prophesying, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, and showing mercy. He emphasizes using these gifts in proportion to our faith, highlighting the importance of stewarding our talents in a way that is consistent with our belief in God.
- Ephesians 4:11-13: Here, Paul lists gifts Christ gave to the church, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. The purpose of these gifts is to equip God's people for works of service, building up the body of Christ until we reach unity in faith and knowledge of Jesus.
Stewardship Verses Related to Time
Time is another critical resource that the Bible instructs us to steward carefully. The following verses remind us of the value of time and the importance of using it wisely, in ways that honor God and fulfill His purposes.
- Ephesians 5:15-16: "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." This passage advises believers to live wisely and make the most of their time, recognizing the moral challenges of the days in which we live.
- Psalm 90:12: "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." This prayer from Moses asks God to help us understand the brevity of life so that we might live wisely, with a perspective that values eternal things over temporal ones.
- Colossians 4:5: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity." This verse encourages believers to use their time wisely, especially in their interactions with non-believers, seizing opportunities to reflect Christ in their actions.
- James 4:14: "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." James reminds us of the fleeting nature of life, urging us to be mindful of how we spend our time, knowing that our days on earth are limited and precious.
Being a Godly Steward of Our Blessings
The Bible has a lot to say about stewardship. Christians are called to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to His people – including time, talents, and finances. In turn, Christians are to use His resources wisely and for His glory. When that happens, God promises to bless us with more (John 13:17).A note for church leaders: Using the right tools and technology is one way to steward the community and financial resources God has blessed us with. Check out this list of church management tools to learn more.
Sign Up for Product Updates
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does the Bible Say About Being Good Stewards?
The Bible teaches the principles of stewardship by encouraging believers to manage possessions wisely, entrust resources to faithful stewards, and invest their talents for kingdom growth. Scriptures highlight the significance of using all that God has given us—our time, talents, and treasures—in ways that honor God with all resources. For instance, the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) not only advocates for the diligent multiplication of our gifts but also underscores the importance of being accountable for the resources entrusted to us by God.
Who in the Bible was a Good Steward?
Joseph, son of Jacob, stands out as a paradigm of good stewardship in the Bible. His story, from managing Potiphar's household to overseeing Egypt's grain stores, exemplifies how to manage possessions wisely and entrust resources to faithful stewards. Joseph's ability to save Egypt and its neighboring countries from famine by wisely storing and distributing grain during years of abundance demonstrates the impact of godly stewardship and the importance of preparing and providing for future needs.
Why Does God Want Us to Be Stewards?
God desires us to be stewards so we can teach the principles of stewardship to others, serve others with love and humility, and share blessings with the community. Stewardship is a way to give generously to those in need, reflecting God's generosity towards us. By entrusting us with His resources, God invites us to participate in His divine plan, allowing us to contribute to the well-being of others and the growth of His kingdom. Through stewardship, we learn to live out our faith in practical ways, making a tangible difference in the world around us while growing closer to God
VIDEO transcript
10 Bible Verses About Stewardship of Money
God blesses His people with many resources, including money, but that blessing comes with the responsibility of using it for God's glory. After all, everything comes from Him. Therefore, Christians must use their gifts by His will (1 Corinthians 4:7), being good stewards or "caretakers" of what God has entrusted.
This stewardship extends beyond mere financial management; it encompasses a broader mandate to steward the earth and its resources, reflecting our role as caretakers of God's creation. Christians are called to allocate funds wisely to further God's work, ensuring that our giving supports the spread of the Gospel!
In our stewardship, we are also tasked with multiplying the gifts God has given us through effort and investment, whether those gifts are talents, time, or treasure. Accountability is key, as we must account for our stewardship actions, demonstrating transparency and integrity.
Thankfully, the Bible has a lot to say about how Christians should handle their money and possessions. Here are Bible verses about money stewardship – keep reading to learn how God wants Christians to handle their worldly gains.
What is Biblical Stewardship?
Biblical stewardship is deeply rooted in the teachings and principles found throughout Scripture. It encompasses the idea that all resources and possessions are entrusted to us by God, and it is our duty to manage them with wisdom and integrity. This stewardship is not merely about financial management but extends to every aspect of life, reflecting our relationship with God and our responsibilities towards His creation.
God-honoring stewardship is the foundation of this concept, emphasizing that our management of resources should reflect our reverence and love for God. It's about recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God and should be used in ways that honor Him and further His kingdom.
Here are a few key aspects of Biblical stewardship:
Wise management involves making prudent decisions that align with God's will, ensuring that resources are not wasted but used efficiently and effectively. It means being thoughtful and discerning about how we allocate our time, talents, and treasures.
Generous giving is a key aspect of biblical stewardship, highlighting the importance of sharing our blessings with others. It's about giving freely and joyfully, not out of obligation or for recognition, but out of a genuine desire to help and serve those in need.
Faithful service reflects the steward's commitment to serving God and others with loyalty and dedication. It's about using our abilities and resources to serve the church, community, and the world, embodying the love and compassion of Christ in our actions.
Responsible allocation involves the careful and ethical distribution of resources, ensuring they are used in ways that align with Christian values and principles. It's about stewardship that is not only efficient but also just and fair, taking into account the needs of others and the impact on God's creation.
Diligent investment speaks to the importance of investing our resources in ways that yield positive, godly returns. This includes investing time in relationships, talents in service, and finances in kingdom-building endeavors, always seeking to produce fruit that glorifies God.
Grateful receiving acknowledges that everything we receive is from God's hand. It's about receiving with humility and gratitude, recognizing the generosity of God in our lives and responding with a thankful heart.
Purposeful sharing extends the concept of stewardship beyond individual gain, focusing on the communal and collective aspect of sharing God's blessings. It's about creating a culture of generosity, where resources are shared with purpose and intention, promoting the well-being of the community and the advancement of the Gospel.
Transparent accounting is vital in maintaining integrity and trustworthiness in stewardship. It involves being open and honest about how resources are managed and used, ensuring accountability and fostering trust within the Christian community and beyond.
Sustainable preservation of God's creation is an integral part of stewardship. It reflects a commitment to managing natural resources wisely, ensuring that the environment is protected and preserved for future generations, in line with God's mandate to care for the earth.
Spirit-led guidance is essential in biblical stewardship, as it involves seeking and following the leading of the Holy Spirit in decision-making. This ensures that our stewardship aligns with God's will and purposes, leading to decisions that honor Him and advance His kingdom.
Kingdom-focused use of resources ensures that the primary goal of stewardship is to further the work of God's kingdom. It means prioritizing the spread of the Gospel and the growth of the church over personal gain or secular achievements.
Finally, environmental care as part of stewardship recognizes the biblical mandate to steward the earth. It involves actions that protect and restore the environment, acknowledging that creation is a precious gift from God to be respected and cared for.
Importance of Stewardship
The concept of biblical stewardship is not only a personal responsibility but a crucial aspect of Christian living that has far-reaching implications. It is about managing all aspects of life according to God's principles, leading to a multitude of benefits and positive outcomes, both in the present and for eternity.
Here are several key outcomes of Biblical stewardship:
- Effective multiplying of resources is a significant outcome of biblical stewardship. By wisely managing and investing what God has entrusted to us, we can see growth not just in material wealth but in spiritual and relational assets as well, contributing to the expansion of God's kingdom.
- Next, Biblical stewardship allows for proactive providing–anticipating needs and acting in advance to meet them, reflecting the proactive nature of God's love. This can be seen in efforts to address poverty, injustice, and other social issues in a way that reflects Christ's compassion and mercy.
- Effective stewardship can also lead to greater community support, by using resources to support and uplift others, fostering a sense of unity, love, and mutual support that reflects the nature of the early Christian community.
- When you steward your resources better, you’re able to engage in intentional blessing. This goes beyond random acts of kindness, involving strategic and thoughtful use of time, talents, and treasures to make a positive impact on individuals and communities.
- Finally, eternal reward reminds us that biblical stewardship has not only temporal but eternal implications. The way we manage the resources God has entrusted to us can impact our eternal destiny, with rewards in heaven promised for faithfulness in stewardship on earth.
Verses About the Meaning of Stewardship
The kind of stewardship mentioned in the Bible is different from how most of us understand it today. For example, when the Bible talks about being a steward of your possessions, it’s not talking about how you manage what’s yours. Instead, it emphasizes that everything ultimately belongs to God: "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it" (Psalm 24:1).
Scripture on stewardship of money clarifies that God is the owner of everything. In fact, He owns people themselves – not just their possessions! That’s why the Bible is clear on the stewardship of money, illustrating how Christians should use those blessings to bring Him glory:
- Psalm 50:7, 8-11: “Listen, my people, and I will speak… I bring no charges against you concerning your sacrifices or concerning your burnt offerings, which are ever before me. I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine.”
- Haggai 2:7-9: “‘I will shake all nations, and what is desired by all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘And in this place I will grant peace,’ declares the Lord Almighty.”
- 1 Chronicles 29:12-14: “Wealth and honor come from You; You are the ruler of all things. In Your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give You thanks, and praise Your glorious name. But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from your hand.”
These verses show that everything belongs to God, including our money and possessions. Christians are merely stewards of His resources and are responsible for using them wisely and for His glory. Through actions, we can give thanks for all the blessings He constantly provides.
Free online giving tools for your church
Tithely provides the best online tools to help you increase generosity, manage your church, and engage your church members.
Sign Up FreeVerses About Being a Good Steward
Being a steward means being responsible for something that doesn't belong to you. In the context of money, Christians are responsible for managing the worldly riches God has generously provided.
Here are a few Bible verses about the stewardship of money and being a good steward:
- Hebrews 13:5: "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
- 1 Timothy 6:17: "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”
- Deuteronomy 15:9-10: “Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought: ‘The seventh year, the year for canceling debts, is near,’ so that you do not show ill will toward the needy among your fellow Israelites and give them nothing… Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.”
- Luke 16:9-11: “I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. ‘Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?’”
- Proverbs 3:6, 9-10: “In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
God expects His stewards to be faithful and trustworthy. Therefore, Christians are called to look to Him as their Master – not money (Matthew 6:24). Anybody who becomes careless with how they handle their God-given blessings will be held accountable.
Verses About Stewardship of Non-Money Items
While the Bible talks about money a lot, it's important to note that stewardship is more than just finances.
One way to think about it is this: imagine you are invited to a friend's house for dinner. While you're there, your friend asks you to watch her dog while she goes out for a bit. You agree, and she hands over the leash. Now, even though the dog isn't yours, you are responsible for taking care of it while your friend is away. You are its steward.
Here are more Bible verses on how Christians can be good stewards with non-monetary possessions:
- Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
- Luke 12:13-15: "‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.’ Jesus replied, ‘Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?’ Then He said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.’”
- Luke 3:11: “John answered, ‘Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.’”
Christians are called to use their time, talents, and abilities wisely and make the most of every opportunity to bring glory to God. In all things, Christians should take God's blessings seriously and fully commit to serving Him, following the stewardship examples of Biblical characters that came before.
Stewardship Verses Related to Talents
The Bible speaks extensively about the stewardship of talents, which can refer to skills, abilities, and spiritual gifts. These verses emphasize the importance of recognizing our talents as gifts from God and the need to use them wisely and diligently for His glory and the benefit of others.
- Matthew 25:14-30 (Parable of the Talents): This parable highlights the importance of using our God-given talents wisely. The master entrusts his servants with talents, and upon his return, he rewards those who have invested and multiplied them, while the one who hid his talent is reprimanded. This teaches us that God expects us to use and grow the abilities He has given us.
- 1 Peter 4:10: "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." This verse encourages believers to use their diverse gifts in service to one another, reflecting the manifold grace of God.
- Romans 12:6-8: In this passage, Paul speaks about different gifts given to believers by the grace of God, including prophesying, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, and showing mercy. He emphasizes using these gifts in proportion to our faith, highlighting the importance of stewarding our talents in a way that is consistent with our belief in God.
- Ephesians 4:11-13: Here, Paul lists gifts Christ gave to the church, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. The purpose of these gifts is to equip God's people for works of service, building up the body of Christ until we reach unity in faith and knowledge of Jesus.
Stewardship Verses Related to Time
Time is another critical resource that the Bible instructs us to steward carefully. The following verses remind us of the value of time and the importance of using it wisely, in ways that honor God and fulfill His purposes.
- Ephesians 5:15-16: "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." This passage advises believers to live wisely and make the most of their time, recognizing the moral challenges of the days in which we live.
- Psalm 90:12: "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." This prayer from Moses asks God to help us understand the brevity of life so that we might live wisely, with a perspective that values eternal things over temporal ones.
- Colossians 4:5: "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity." This verse encourages believers to use their time wisely, especially in their interactions with non-believers, seizing opportunities to reflect Christ in their actions.
- James 4:14: "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." James reminds us of the fleeting nature of life, urging us to be mindful of how we spend our time, knowing that our days on earth are limited and precious.
Being a Godly Steward of Our Blessings
The Bible has a lot to say about stewardship. Christians are called to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to His people – including time, talents, and finances. In turn, Christians are to use His resources wisely and for His glory. When that happens, God promises to bless us with more (John 13:17).A note for church leaders: Using the right tools and technology is one way to steward the community and financial resources God has blessed us with. Check out this list of church management tools to learn more.
Sign Up for Product Updates
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does the Bible Say About Being Good Stewards?
The Bible teaches the principles of stewardship by encouraging believers to manage possessions wisely, entrust resources to faithful stewards, and invest their talents for kingdom growth. Scriptures highlight the significance of using all that God has given us—our time, talents, and treasures—in ways that honor God with all resources. For instance, the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) not only advocates for the diligent multiplication of our gifts but also underscores the importance of being accountable for the resources entrusted to us by God.
Who in the Bible was a Good Steward?
Joseph, son of Jacob, stands out as a paradigm of good stewardship in the Bible. His story, from managing Potiphar's household to overseeing Egypt's grain stores, exemplifies how to manage possessions wisely and entrust resources to faithful stewards. Joseph's ability to save Egypt and its neighboring countries from famine by wisely storing and distributing grain during years of abundance demonstrates the impact of godly stewardship and the importance of preparing and providing for future needs.
Why Does God Want Us to Be Stewards?
God desires us to be stewards so we can teach the principles of stewardship to others, serve others with love and humility, and share blessings with the community. Stewardship is a way to give generously to those in need, reflecting God's generosity towards us. By entrusting us with His resources, God invites us to participate in His divine plan, allowing us to contribute to the well-being of others and the growth of His kingdom. Through stewardship, we learn to live out our faith in practical ways, making a tangible difference in the world around us while growing closer to God
Sign Up for Product Updates
Tithely provides the tools you need to engage with your church online, stay connected, increase generosity, and simplify the lives of your staff.
With tools like text and email messaging, custom church apps and websites, church management software, digital giving, and so much more… it’s no wonder why over 37,000 churches in 50 countries trust Tithely to help run their church.
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