Stewardship Isn’t Just Tithing 10%

Recently, I was reminded in one of our church services that stewardship goes far beyond our tithe. For years, I’ve witnessed and heard individuals use the terms “stewardship” and “tithing” interchangeably. In reality, tithing is just a part of the stewardship process.

Most of us would agree with the biblical model set before us that our tithe should be 10%. At times, I also believe God calls us to give above our tithe to help our church, other ministry causes, and in meeting the needs of others around us who are hurting and need our financial help. But, where do we go from there? Is our stewardship complete? What about the other 90% of our income? What about all the resources we’ve been given?

Stewardship must go beyond the tithe and penetrate every part of our lives and every decision we make. Stewardship, by its very definition, implies that we are taking care of resources that are owned by someone else. Wikipedia states “Financial stewardship is based on the belief that God is the true owner of each person’s possessions, and that one is accountable to God for the acceptable care and use of those possessions.”

Once we understand that everything we have is actually God’s, it should motivate us to do our very best every time we write a check, use our credit card, paint our house, wash our car, or plan our day. It may seem trivial to look at stewardship in such a detailed, microscopic fashion; however, even some of our smallest decisions can add up to life-changing events and circumstances. We should also remind ourselves that when we manage our finances, care for our families, use our talents, and budget our time, we can recognize the many blessings we’ve been given. Faithful stewardship will seek to honor God in ALL things great and small.

When I reflect on my daily decisions, I can’t help but think of ways to be a better steward of what I’ve been given. Whether it’s investing better, giving to the right ministry causes, or just turning off the light when I leave a room, there are daily choices I make which speak to my testimony of stewardship.

In 1 Corinthians 4:2, it says “Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful” NKJV. Our stewardship is not just about what we are giving to the church; but, it’s what we’re doing with every possible resource we’ve been given.

Please consider joining me in making it a daily habit of asking the Lord to show us the ways we could be a better steward and demonstrate our faithfulness to Him. I know if we trust Him and open our hearts and minds to hear His direction in our lives, He’ll show us the way!

May His blessings flow to you as you demonstrate stewardship beyond the tithe!

Article written by:

Chris Calmer, CPA CFA
Vice President of Operations
Missouri Baptist Foundation