Becoming a Good Steward of God’s Grace: 3 biblical guidelines

Title: Becoming a Good Steward of God’s Grace
Theme: Stewardship: Holding Ourselves Accountable to God
Speaker: Ptr. Jeho Sariego
Scripture Focus: I Peter 4:10

Introduction: The Call to be a Steward of God’s Grace

Watching the news nowadays can easily leave us feeling worried, fearful, disappointed, and frustrated due to corruption, political disputes, and wars. It is easy for these external pressures to affect our belief system, our faith, and even our way of living.

This reality is not new. The early believers scattered in Asia Minor faced similar struggles under the reign of the wicked Emperor Nero, where their safety and peace were constantly at stake because of their faith. Yet, the Apostle Peter wrote to encourage them to put their hope in Christ, to live faithfully, and to persevere.

Continuing from our previous message on Biblical Stewardship, we are reminded that God expects His children to be faithful. Becoming a steward of God’s grace is our calling even in a world full of troubles. Based on 1 Peter 4, here are three biblical guidelines to help us fulfill this role.

1. A Steward of God’s Grace Surrenders to His Will

To be a faithful steward of God’s grace, we must first “arm ourselves” with the same mind as Christ. Just as Christ suffered in the flesh and was quickened by the Spirit, we are called to live the rest of our time not for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

The scripture reminds us that our past is enough for worldly living:

“For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries:” .

Though the world may think it strange that we no longer run with them in these excesses, we know that everyone will give an account to the One who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

• Key Action: Practice self-control and sober-mindedness toward prayer. Knowing that the end of all things is at hand should not cause panic, but instead drive every steward of God’s grace to surrender their mind to God, for He is in control.

2. Show Earnest Love and Hospitality

Stewardship is not lived in isolation; it is lived out in community. Above all things, we are commanded to “have fervent charity among yourselves”. Why? Because love covers a multitude of sins.

We are called to show love just as Jesus loved us sacrificially and faithfully. This love manifests in practical ways, specifically through hospitality. We must “use hospitality one to another without grudging”.

3. Serve Others as a Steward of God’s Grace

Finally, stewardship involves active service. The scripture tells us:

“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”

Whether it is faithfully sharing God’s Word or graciously helping others with our talents and possessions, these are graces God has given us. They are not for our own good alone but for those in need.

• If you speak: Let him speak as the oracles of God.

• If you minister: Let him do it as of the ability which God giveth.

Conclusion: All for His Glory

We serve so that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ. Knowing that everything we have is grace from God, a faithful steward of God’s grace should never boast or use their gifts selfishly. Instead, let us use them to make Christ known, win souls, and edify our fellow believers.

To Him be praise and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Call to Action: Use Your Gift

God’s grace is greater than life’s struggles. This week, identify one specific “gift”, whether it’s a talent, a resource, or a word of encouragement that God has given you. Don’t keep it to yourself. Find someone in need and minister to them, serving as a faithful channel of God’s manifold grace.

Closing Prayer

“Lord, thank You for Your manifold grace. In a world that worries about tomorrow, help us be a faithful steward of God’s grace today. Help us to surrender to Your will, love one another fervently, and serve with the gifts You have provided, so that in all things, You may be glorified. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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