Introductory Thoughts
Basically, a steward is one who oversees someone else’s possessions. The scripture shows stewards overseeing the substance and possession of the king (1 Chronicles 28:1) or administering the oversight of labourers within a vineyard (Matthew 20:8). The life of a steward was devoted to his master’s needs, wants, and demands. The job description was broad and comprehensive. Eliezer, Abraham’s steward (Genesis 15:2), ruled over all that Abraham had (Genesis 24:2) but also went forth to find a wife for Abraham’s son Isaac (Genesis 24:9). The master’s needs became the responsibilities of the steward. Simply put, the steward was responsible for what the master had placed under his care and supervision.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Potiphar placed Joseph over all his possessions (Genesis 39:4-6). Joseph ended up in prison as a result of a lie told about him. He again became a steward while imprisoned (Genesis 39:20-23). Eventually, he became a steward for Pharaoh over the land of Egypt (Genesis 41:40-47).
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(For everyone): Look up the word steward in scripture. What are some of the responsibilities given to stewards? What can you learn from the work of a steward that might assist you in understanding how to become a better Christian?
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In what ways can stewardships parallel that of being a Christian? What responsibilities do you have that would be similar to that of a steward?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to teach you how to be a good steward.
- Ask God to help you to be faithful in your stewardship for Him.
Song
AS A VOLUNTEER
