Written by: John Sernaque
Stewardship
CS - Counsels on Stewardship (1940) Chapter 11—Selling Homes and Property
God calls upon those who have possessions in lands and houses, to sell, and to invest the money where it will be supplying the great want in the missionary field. When once they have experienced the real satisfaction that comes from thus doing, they will keep the channel open, and the means the Lord entrusts to them will be constantly flowing into the treasury, that souls may be converted. These souls will, in their turn, practice the same self-denial, economy, and simplicity, for Christ’s sake, that they, too, may bring their offerings to God. Through these talents, wisely invested, still other souls may be converted; and thus the work goes on, showing that the gifts of God are appreciated. The Giver is acknowledged, and glory redounds to Him through the faithfulness of His stewards. {CS 58.1}
When we make these earnest appeals in behalf of the cause of God, and present the financial wants of our missions, conscientious souls who believe the truth are deeply stirred. Like the poor widow, whom Christ commended, who gave her two mites into the treasury, they give, in their poverty, to the utmost of their ability. Such often deprive themselves even of the apparent necessities of life; while there are men and women who, possessing houses and lands, cling to their earthly treasure with selfish tenacity, and do not have faith enough in the message and in God to put their means into His work. To these last are especially applicable the words of Christ, “Sell that ye have, and give alms.” {CS 58.2}
Our eternal mansions await us in the heavenly kingdom. Yes, while we are still here, we need a place to live; but we do not need more than one house or property. Or unless we use those properties as means of income which we could use to support the work. This is a waste of God’s resources. God calls us to sell what we have and give alms, and put these means to work. The work will have a ripple effect, as each converted soul will work to convert other souls. We are to give to the utmost of our ability, walking in faith in God and His message. These are the gifts, which God acknowledges. Let go of the earthly properties, look forward to your mansion in heaven, and keep your eyes on Jesus.
Dear kind and gracious Father,
We thank You for providing for all our needs. We pray that as we continue on our pilgrimage here on earth, we are deeply stirred by Your message of saving truth. May Your Spirit convict us of these truths to go forth in helping convert other souls for Your heavenly kingdom. Help us to return the means You bless us with back into Your treasury for the work at hand. Give us the desire to let go of our earthly possessions and give back to You to the utmost of our ability. May we increase our faith in Your message. Bless us and keep us, in the name of Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.
