As 2022 comes to a close, it’s that time of year when we prepare for the new dumpster to be set on fire for 2023. Now is the perfect time to look back at what worked and what did not work in the past year, while looking toward next year. We’re all feeling the financial pinch, and at this time of year, we’ve all run out of time and energy, which means we have to be wise to get the most out of our life and money in 2023. To help, I’ve got 9 questions to help you get more out of your life and money in 2023. I also want to thank everyone who prays for and partners with us at Real Faith. We are completely donor supported seeking to get free Bible teaching out to around 100 million people a year and are grateful for all our ministry partners who help get ‘er done for God’s Son.
Question #1. How can stewardship make me more like Jesus in 2023?
God came into history as the man Jesus Christ. He left the riches and glory of His heavenly kingdom for poverty and humility.
Jesus’ life was perfectly stewarded. Vocationally, He spent most of His life working an honest job as a carpenter. Financially, although poor, Jesus paid His tithes and taxes while giving generously to those in need. Jesus’ public ministry included doing the works the Father had given Him to do, “I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do” (John 17:4).
On the cross, Jesus became the most generous giver that the world has ever known. There, He took our sin, condemnation, and death, and gave us His righteousness, salvation, and life. Following His resurrection, Jesus continues to be generous, giving us the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts, and is preparing for us a Kingdom in which we will enjoy His generosity together with Him forever.
The early church was marked by generous stewardship because they followed the example of Jesus. In Jerusalem, the early believers sold possessions to help fellow Christians in need (Acts 2:35; 4:32-35). In Ephesus, when the pagans met Jesus, they burned their occultic worship items that were valued at millions of dollars in total (Acts 19:19). Christians and non-Christians alike even celebrate Jesus’ birth every Christmas by giving gifts in the tradition of the Magi, who brought gifts to Jesus as a young boy.
Looking back at 2022, what parts of your life did you steward well and need to continue doing, and what parts of your life did you not steward well and need to make changes?
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