Managers of God’s Gifts

Paul reminds us that as managers of God’s gifts and mysteries, our job isn’t fame or success—it’s simple, faithful stewardship.

“Regard us … as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful … The Lord … will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his commendation from God.”—1 Corinthians 4:1–5

How did Paul view himself? Not as a superstar, a mighty warrior, or a powerful minister. No. He simply was a servant of Jesus and a steward of “the mysteries of God.”

The only thing that really mattered was what God had called him to do. Paul knew that we all will appear before God and that He “will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart.” Then, in His presence, we’ll be judged with absolute fairness and accuracy.

When Paul talked about being a “servant,” he used a word derived from the word “to row.” Thus, Christ was his captain, directing the ship, and Paul was His helper.

Using another analogy, he described himself as a “steward,” or simply a manager. Everything changes when we think of ourselves as managers. We own nothing; everything in our lives belongs to God. Our responsibility is to be “found faithful,” taking care of what He’s given us.

As we look at our lives, we can feel at times that we’re failures or that we haven’t accomplished anything significant or meaningful. We may not fully understand the assignments God has given us, but the key is a willingness to be faithful.

Today, remember that you’ll receive your “commendation from God,” based not on what others say about you or even on what you feel about yourself but on your faithfulness in
His sight.

Reflection Question: How are you managing what God has entrusted to your care?