Introduction
Rev. Sammy Chege opened with Psalm 24:1 (“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it”), reminding believers that everything we have belongs to God. In difficult seasons, our stewardship reveals where our trust truly lies. Using the example of the Macedonian churches (2 Corinthians 8:1–5)—who gave joyfully despite extreme poverty—he challenged the congregation: “Hard times don’t excuse poor stewardship; they refine it.”
Key Points
Faithful Stewardship When Times Are Hard
– The Macedonians gave *”beyond their ability”* (2 Corinthians 8:3) because their faith was in God, not their resources.
– Principle: Hardship is not a reason to withhold but an opportunity to trust God deeper.
Quote: “Your giving is faith in action—it declares who owns your heart.”
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The Three Types of Stewardship
A. Stewardship of Time (Planting Seeds in Hard Times)
– Scripture: “Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let your hands not be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well.”* (Ecclesiastes 11:6)
– Truth: Even in difficult seasons, we must keep sowing—in prayer, serving, and investing in God’s kingdom. Time is a gift; waste it, and you waste opportunities.
– Challenge: Are you using your time for eternal impact or temporary comfort?
B. Stewardship of Talents (Your Natural Gifting Matters)
– Scripture: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.”* (1 Peter 4:10)
– Truth: God has given each of us unique abilities—not for selfish gain but for His glory.
– Question: Are you hiding your gifts or deploying them for the kingdom?
C. Stewardship of Treasure (Faithful with Little, Blessed with More)
– Scripture:”Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.”* (Luke 16:10)
– Truth: God doesn’t look at the amount you give but the heart behind it.
Quote: “Can I trust you with the little you have? If you’re faithful in small things, God will entrust you with greater things.”*
Example: The widow’s mite (Mark 12:41–44)—her small offering was greater than all the rest because it was her all.
3. Key Lenses to Become a Good Steward
- Remember Who God Is (Psalm 24:1)
– Stewardship starts with surrender—recognizing that everything belongs to Him. - Rediscover Stewardship as Worship
– Giving is not just an act; it’s an act of worship (Romans 12:1).
Quote:”Generosity isn’t about amounts; it’s about allegiance.”
3. Recommit to the Mission of the Church
– The Macedonians *”gave themselves first to the Lord” (2 Corinthians 8:5).
– Challenge: Align your resources with God’s kingdom purposes.
Conclusion
Rev. Chege closed with a powerful charge from **Galatians 6:9:
et us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Final Encouragement:
– God is still certain. Even in hard times, He remains faithful.
– Keep sowing. Your faithfulness in time, talents, and treasure will bear fruit.
– Trust His timing. The harvest is coming.