Written by: John Sernaque
Stewardship
CS - Counsels on Stewardship (1940) Chapter 3—Why God Employs Men as His Almoners
Our Possessions Only in Trust
However large, however small the possessions of any individual, let him remember that it is his only in trust. For his strength, skill, time, talents, opportunities, and means, he must render an account to God. This is an individual work; God gives to us, that we may become like Him, generous, noble, beneficent, by giving to others. Those who, forgetful of their divine mission, seek only to save or to spend in the indulgence of pride or selfishness, may secure the gains and pleasures of this world; but in God’s sight, estimated by their spiritual attainments, they are poor, wretched, miserable, blind, naked. {CS 22.2}
When rightly employed, wealth becomes a golden bond of gratitude and affection between man and his fellow men, and a strong tie to bind his affections to his Redeemer. The infinite gift of God’s dear Son calls for tangible expressions of gratitude from the recipients of His grace. He who receives the light of Christ’s love, is thereby placed under the strongest obligation to shed the blessed light upon other souls in darkness.—The Review and Herald, May 16, 1882. {CS 22.3}
The title to this chapter is “Why God Employs Men as His Almoners.” The answer states that it is only in trust that men are employed to collect God’s money. This money is to be used for God’s work, not for self. There are many preachers out there that call themselves “self-supporting ministries”, whereby the preacher collects money from the congregation for his use first, and then whatever he deems “left- over” is used for the benefit of the church. Instead of helping to support the church with their means from gainful employment, they do the opposite and use the church’s money to support themselves and their families lifestyle. What scoundrels and thieves these men are. They must render an account to God! They are placed under the strongest obligations, yet they dare steal God’s money right under the church’s nose. May the Lord have mercy on their souls.
Our kind and gracious Father,
We thank you for allowing us to be stewards and almoners of the money that is received from You through Your children to be used to further Your gospel truth, and to help the poor and the needy. You have provided this plan to us for us to follow in truth. We pray that those preachers who are misusing Your money will truly repent of their dishonest and deceptive ways and begin to use the blessings You are providing to further Your gospel truth, and not for their own selfish use. We pray for Your continued blessings upon us and help all to remember that it is ours only in trust. Help us that we may become like You, generous, noble, beneficent, by giving to others. All these things we pray, in the name of Christ Jesus. Amen.
