HOW TO UNLOCK CHANNELS OF BLESSINGS
In our recent church discussions, we have explored various important themes that are essential for spiritual growth and understanding. A central tenet we emphasized is the notion that God is the ultimate owner of all things, which presents us with the responsibility to manage His resources wisely. This concept aligns with the message conveyed in our worship, where we celebrated the idea that God’s gifts enhance our lives. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, articulated this idea by urging believers to view themselves as servants of Christ and stewards of divine mysteries. This perspective invites us to reflect on our own identities and responsibilities, encouraging us to embrace our roles as caretakers of God’s gifts and provisions.
Furthermore, we have reiterated the significance of recognizing that everything we possess—our abilities, resources, and future—ultimately belongs to God. As stewards, we are accountable for how we manage these gifts, and it is our desire to be found faithful in this stewardship. To reinforce this commitment, we encourage a collective affirmation of our responsibilities: acknowledging that we must steward, understanding that we will be held accountable, and aspiring to be faithful in our endeavors. The parable of the talents serves as a poignant reminder that those who effectively manage their resources are deemed faithful and rewarded accordingly. While many Christians seek abundance, it is crucial to consider what God expects from us at our current level of stewardship, whether it pertains to our time, talents, or treasures.
When engaging in discussions about biblical stewardship, it is common for the conversation to focus predominantly on financial resources. However, it is essential to recognize that stewardship begins with the allocation of time. In our church, we dedicated one Sunday to exploring the significance of time and another to discussing the talents we possess. For those who may have missed these sessions, it is crucial to catch up on these teachings. Time can be viewed as a convertible currency; thus, if you were to commit this week to investing more time in areas that matter deeply to you, such as nurturing your marriage, the benefits would be evident. A neglected relationship often reflects its lack of attention, while one that has been cultivated with time will flourish and thrive.
Moreover, many congregants come to church seeking divine guidance for their businesses, yet it is vital to also invest time in strategizing and holding oneself accountable as a steward of the 24 hours granted each day. By dedicating additional time to your business endeavors, you may witness God’s intervention and blessings manifest in your efforts. Often, we find ourselves praying fervently for assistance while neglecting our responsibilities on Earth. Last Sunday, we highlighted the message from Matthew 6:24, which emphasizes the necessity of choosing between serving God and material wealth, as there is no neutral position. We contrasted the story of the rich young ruler, who walked away sorrowful after being instructed to sell his possessions, with that of Zacchaeus, who, moved by his encounter with Jesus, willingly pledged to give away half of his wealth and repay those he had wronged. Jesus affirmed that salvation had entered Zacchaeus’s home, illustrating the transformative power of genuine stewardship and commitment.
He articulated that one cannot serve two masters, emphasizing that one must either honor one and disregard the other, or remain loyal to one while despising the other. He specifically stated that it is impossible to serve both God and mammon. Many Christians might prefer a more direct comparison, such as serving God versus serving Satan, as there is a common belief that failing to serve God equates to serving the adversary. However, the reality is that numerous individuals may identify as Christians yet find themselves in servitude to money.
For Christians, the primary challenge often does not stem from the devil, although he is indeed a concern; rather, the true struggle lies in the bondage created by various issues, particularly financial ones.
If money has been a source of strife within a family, it is essential to recognize that individuals themselves may have unwittingly opened the door to such turmoil. By practicing genuine stewardship, characterized by transparency and accountability—first to God and then to one’s partner—money can be transformed from a potential source of discord into a tool for unity and support.
In discussing the channels of blessing and the stewardship of our resources, it is crucial to adopt a mindset that aligns with the principles of the Kingdom. In 2 Corinthians 9:8-10, as rendered in the Amplified Translation, it is stated that God is capable of bestowing upon you an abundance of grace, favor, and earthly blessings. This divine provision ensures that you will possess complete sufficiency in all circumstances, regardless of the nature of your needs. The passage underscores the importance of being self-sufficient in Him while also having an abundance for every good work and charitable act. It is written that the generous individual who shares with the poor will have their righteousness endure forever. Furthermore, the scripture assures that He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also provide and multiply your resources, reinforcing the notion that true stewardship leads to both personal and communal blessings.
The pursuit of your resources is essential for enhancing the yield of your righteousness, which manifests through acts of goodness, kindness, and love.
It is my hope that the reading of this message brings blessings. This morning, I wish to address the mindset that believers should adopt regarding the treasures entrusted to them by God. The concept of biblical stewardship is crucial, particularly in relation to financial matters. Money is a significant topic that frequently dominates the news cycle; any statement that challenges conventional views on this subject is likely to attract attention. In contrast, discussions surrounding other topics, regardless of their potential impact, often fade into obscurity. Many individuals leave church with unresolved thoughts about money, only to engage in conversations at work that may further complicate their understanding, especially when they seek counsel from those lacking the necessary context.
In 2 Corinthians 9, particularly in the concluding verse, it is stated that God, who supplies seed to the sower and bread for sustenance, will also multiply your resources for sowing. This principle echoes the sentiments found in Isaiah 55, where the Lord invites the wicked to abandon their ways and assures that He will extend mercy and pardon. The passage emphasizes the vast difference between divine thoughts and human thoughts, illustrating that God’s ways are far superior to our own. This understanding is vital for believers as they navigate their financial responsibilities and seek to align their actions with God’s intentions, ensuring that their stewardship reflects His abundant grace and provision.
In verse 10, it is stated that just as rain and snow descend from the heavens and do not return without fulfilling their purpose, they nourish the earth, enabling it to produce and flourish. This process ultimately provides seed for the sower and bread for the eater. The Apostle Paul references this concept in 2 Corinthians 9:9-10, illustrating that the manner in which one engages with God’s word parallels how the earth utilizes the rain bestowed upon it. The divine intention behind the rain is twofold: to ensure that there is seed available for those who sow and bread for those who consume. This signifies that when God bestows His grace through provision, it manifests in two distinct forms—resources that can either be utilized for immediate sustenance or set aside for future planting.
Many individuals adopt a mindset that perceives all of God’s provisions solely as sustenance, which is a flawed perspective. Conversely, some may view everything they receive as seed for future sowing, leading to a lack of present enjoyment and fulfillment. Such individuals may appear to be perpetually preparing for a future that remains elusive, neglecting their current needs and responsibilities. It is essential to recognize that possessing seed today is crucial for securing a future. Therefore, a balanced understanding is necessary; believers should acknowledge that while some resources are intended for immediate consumption, others are meant for future investment. This duality is further illustrated in Luke chapter 20, where the interactions with Jesus reveal additional insights into the nature of provision and stewardship.
In Luke chapter 20, verses 20 to 25, we observe a calculated attempt by certain individuals to entrap Jesus through deceitful questioning. They closely monitored His actions and dispatched spies who feigned righteousness, aiming to capture His words in a manner that would enable them to hand Him over to the governing authorities. When they approached Him, they addressed Him as “teacher,” acknowledging His reputation for teaching truthfully and without bias. They posed a provocative question regarding the legality of paying taxes to Caesar, seeking to trap Him in a dilemma. However, Jesus, discerning their insincerity, challenged them by asking why they were testing Him. He then requested a denarius, a Roman coin, and inquired about the image and inscription it bore. Upon their response that it was Caesar’s, He instructed them to render to Caesar what belonged to him and to God what belonged to God.
This passage serves as a profound lesson for believers regarding the management of resources. It introduces two critical frameworks for evaluating our possessions: determining whether something is seed or bread, and discerning whether it belongs to Caesar or to God. Jesus’ directive to give to Caesar what is due to him and to God what is rightfully His emphasizes the importance of accountability in stewardship. As disciples of Christ, it is essential to cultivate a mindset of stewardship that prompts us to ask the right questions about our resources. This accountability ensures that we are prepared to respond appropriately when questioned about our financial practices, much like organizations must adhere to established accounting standards. Just as there are financial reporting standards across various regions, there exists a divine standard for stewardship that every believer should strive to understand and uphold.
In the realm of the divine, there exists a framework akin to your reporting standards, which are fundamentally rooted in the principles I am discussing today. These principles serve as conduits for genuine blessings, prompting us to discern whether our resources are designated as sustenance or as seeds for sowing. The teachings of Jesus emphasize the importance of distinguishing between what is owed to God and what is owed to earthly authorities, encapsulated in His directive to render unto God what is God’s and unto Caesar what is Caesar’s. It is crucial for individuals to recognize the difference between their earnings that serve as bread for consumption and those that are intended as seeds for investment in God’s work. This discernment is vital, as the two categories serve distinct purposes in our stewardship.
Furthermore, it is essential to acknowledge that certain obligations, such as taxes and fees, are part of our civic duties, and some individuals may seek to evade these responsibilities under the guise of divine favor. While God’s grace may indeed provide exemptions in certain circumstances, it does not absolve one from fulfilling obligations that are rightfully due to earthly authorities. The discourse surrounding tithing has gained considerable attention in recent years, particularly in Nigeria, and it is imperative to understand that a portion of one’s earnings is not solely for personal use but is meant to be returned to God, who is the source of all blessings. The distinction between the Old and New Testaments lies in the approach to honoring God; while the Old Testament imposed strict penalties for non-compliance, the New Testament invites believers to give willingly and joyfully, recognizing that the rewards of such generosity are rooted in grace rather than obligation.
It is essential to approach our actions with a sense of common sense rather than merely adhering to legalistic frameworks. The motivation behind our choices should stem from a desire to honor God, rather than from a fear of divine retribution. This distinction is crucial; honoring God is a personal decision, akin to the sentiment expressed in the song that celebrates the joy of praising Jesus. It is a matter of personal choice and pleasure, rather than an obligation dictated by a set of laws, such as those found in the Mosaic tradition. While grace allows for personal freedom in our choices, it simultaneously calls for a standard of respect and honor, rejecting both frivolous behavior and a lack of reverence.
As we delve deeper into the concept of resources, it is important to differentiate between what can be classified as bread and what can be considered seed. The understanding of these terms is vital for faithful stewardship. Bread represents the necessities that sustain us, while seed symbolizes the potential for growth and future provision. It is imperative for individuals to recognize and distinguish between these two categories, as they reflect our responsibilities towards God and society. In an ideal scenario, fulfilling our civic duties, such as paying taxes, translates into tangible benefits like infrastructure and education, which can be seen as our bread. However, in many developing nations, the mismanagement of tax revenues often leads to a disconnect between what is paid and what is received, highlighting the need for accountability and responsible governance.
Bread serves as a fundamental provision for domestic welfare and well-being, embodying not just sustenance but also the essence of financial stability within a household. It is possible for individuals to earn substantial incomes yet still experience a lack of fulfillment at home due to the absence of adequate resources. This situation often arises from a mindset that prioritizes spiritual or sacrificial acts over immediate needs, leading to scenarios where parents may forgo essential expenses, such as their children’s education, in favor of religious contributions. It is crucial to recognize that while spiritual commitments are important, there exists a necessary balance that must be maintained to ensure the well-being of one’s family.
In the context of financial stewardship, the teachings of 1 Timothy 6:17 remind us that wealth should not lead to arrogance or misplaced trust in uncertain riches, but rather in the living God, who generously provides for our needs. The scripture emphasizes that God grants us all things richly to enjoy, and it is essential for individuals to embrace this aspect of their financial blessings without guilt. Enjoying the fruits of one’s labor is not only permissible but encouraged, as long as it is done with a mindset of stewardship. A disciple of Christ should understand that enjoying one’s “bread” today does not preclude the ability to save for tomorrow; rather, it enhances the capacity to provide for one’s family and secure their future. Thus, it is imperative to strike a balance between enjoying present resources and planning for future needs, ensuring that one’s family is neither hungry nor financially vulnerable.
The notion that one is not fulfilling God’s calling in life can be addressed by recognizing that honoring God involves appreciating and enjoying the blessings He has bestowed upon us and our families. A significant aspect of this honor is reflected in how others perceive the manifestations of God’s blessings in our lives. To illustrate this point, one can consider the parable of the prodigal son. The primary issue faced by the prodigal son was not his request for his inheritance, but rather his lack of financial wisdom. When he approached his father, he was not wrong to ask for what was rightfully his; in fact, the father expressed a longing for his son to seek him out. The elder brother, who remained at home, failed to understand that asking for blessings is not foolishness, but rather a matter of being prepared to receive them. The prodigal son’s downfall stemmed from his unpreparedness to handle the wealth he acquired.
Often, individuals seek divine blessings through fervent prayers, moving from one prayer gathering to another, yet they overlook the crucial question of whether they possess the capacity to manage the opportunities that God may present. Without the necessary capacity, one risks being overwhelmed by the very blessings they seek. This can lead to a situation where one misinterprets abundance as mere sustenance, forgetting the source of their blessings. The prodigal son exemplified this when he squandered his inheritance on reckless living, failing to distinguish between what was meant for consumption and what was intended for future growth. A believer who lacks the discernment to separate their resources into savings and investments mirrors the prodigal son’s folly. In essence, any believer who spends all their resources solely on themselves, without consideration for future needs or the greater good, aligns themselves with the same misguided path as the prodigal son, ultimately failing to honor God with their blessings.
The concept of divine mercy is ever-present, particularly for those who may have strayed from their spiritual path. It is essential to recognize that individuals, regardless of their past, can always return to a place of grace and acceptance. Today, I extend an invitation to those who feel lost or disconnected to come back to their spiritual home, where they will find open arms and a welcoming community. As you begin to distinguish between your resources—what is essential for your sustenance and what can be offered in service—consider honoring God with your life. Engage with the teachings presented in this series, and choose to embrace a life guided by principles of honor and reverence towards the divine.
In discussing the metaphor of bread, it is crucial to adopt a mindset that recognizes the distinction between what must be preserved for personal sustenance and what can be shared for greater purposes. Bread symbolizes the resources we retain to ensure our well-being, while the act of sowing should be approached with discernment, guided by divine instruction. Reflecting on my own journey, I recall a pivotal moment in late 2008 when I sensed a calling to establish a new church. As I prayed for guidance, I understood the importance of preparing my heart and finances for this transition. In December of that year, I received a profound message from God, instructing me to dedicate my first three months’ salary as a sign of commitment and readiness for the new phase ahead. This act of faith was not merely a financial decision but a spiritual circumcision, marking the beginning of a transformative journey.
The experience was profound and deeply personal. Although he did not articulate it directly, I sensed that when someone requests your first quarter salary, it signifies a deeper intention rather than a mere financial transaction. I vividly recall discussing this with my wife, who can attest to my conviction that God was asking for my first quarter salary for the year. I believed this act was a crucial step in my spiritual preparation for the next phase of my journey, particularly as I was transitioning into the role of lead pastor and contemplating the establishment of a new ministry. We agreed to manage our finances carefully, relying solely on the remainder of my wife’s salary, especially since we were simultaneously managing a mortgage. This meant that after accounting for our mortgage payments, we would have to make do with whatever little was left.
Reflecting on this period brings to mind a significant moment from nearly two decades ago, just before my marriage. At that time, my bank account held a mere 60,000 naira, a substantial amount for me back then. As we prepared for our wedding, I meticulously calculated the expenses, deducting costs for the wedding gown, rings, and other essentials, which left me with what felt like a trivial sum. I remember sitting in a service at Daystar, where my pastor was delivering a sermon. However, my mind was preoccupied with the mounting wedding expenses, making it difficult to focus on the message. This candid admission highlights the struggle many face when burdened by financial obligations; it is not uncommon for individuals to find their thoughts drifting towards monetary concerns, even in spiritual settings.
During a recent church service, I found myself grappling with distractions, particularly the financial burdens associated with my upcoming wedding. As the pastor delivered his sermon, my thoughts were consumed by the mounting bills, and I felt a profound sense of urgency. In that moment, I sensed a divine prompting to take a bold step: what if I wrote a single check to cover all my expenses and presented it to my pastor after the service? Despite the internal struggle and the familiar doubts that often accompany such decisions, I recognized that this was a call to faith. Having walked with God long enough, I understood that His voice was persistent, urging me to act. Ultimately, I took out my checkbook and wrote that one check, clearing my financial worries in one fell swoop.
As the service concluded, I positioned myself close to my pastor and discreetly handed him the envelope, describing it simply as a sacrificial seed that God had instructed me to give. I refrained from disclosing that it represented all my available funds, perhaps fearing he might decline it. He graciously accepted the gift and offered a prayer for me, which marked the beginning of a remarkable series of events. Shortly thereafter, a church member, who had only occasionally attended services, approached me with an unexpected offer to provide me with a complete wedding outfit, including shoes and a suit, at a high-end store. This generous gesture underscored the truth that when God asks for our resources, it is not to diminish us but to open the floodgates of blessings. While such miraculous provisions may not occur every time, they are a testament to God’s faithfulness and His desire to bless us abundantly, especially when we are willing to trust Him with our needs.
The narrative presented in the biblical accounts, particularly in the context of the stories found in 1st Kings and 2nd Kings, serves to reinforce the transformative experiences I have undergone. Reflecting on a previous discussion regarding the impact of a three-month salary, I can attest to the profound changes that occurred in my life as a result. That particular year marked a significant turning point for me, as I began to shed the limitations of a salary-dependent mindset. This shift was not merely a personal revelation; it was a divine intervention that allowed me to embrace a new perspective on financial independence. When I transitioned to leading a new church, the financial constraints were palpable, as the congregation was still in its infancy, struggling to support itself. Despite having previously enjoyed a comfortable salary and benefits, I made a conscious decision to prioritize the church’s needs over my own financial comfort.
In the early days of the church, I experienced a period without any salary, a situation that initially seemed daunting. However, the support from fellow pastors and church members, who offered to cover basic expenses, was a testament to their commitment to the ministry. I initially declined their offers, believing that my faith would sustain me. Over time, it became evident that my reliance on a traditional salary was no longer necessary. The faith I had cultivated allowed me to thrive without a fixed income, liberating me from the constraints of financial dependency. This newfound freedom has persisted, as I have not felt the pressure of salary expectations for years. In fact, during my final years at my previous position, I was often unaware of when salaries were disbursed, as my financial needs were met through other means. This journey has instilled in me a profound understanding of self-sufficiency and faith, rendering the concept of a salary irrelevant in my life.
In the context of the church, I find myself receiving certain allowances, yet the timing of these provisions is often uncertain and beyond my control. I have come to understand that God has a unique way of providing for my needs, a realization that has been evident throughout my thirty years of faith and service. When God calls upon you to share your resources, it is essential to heed that call. This principle is illustrated in the biblical account found in 1 Kings 17, where the Lord instructed Elijah to journey to Zarephath, a region belonging to Sidon, assuring him that a widow there had been designated to sustain him. The narrative highlights that Elijah’s obedience was not merely for his own benefit; rather, it was a divine orchestration aimed at preserving the widow’s life and faith.
The modern interpretation of such events often leads to skepticism, particularly in light of recent media portrayals that focus on the negative actions of some pastors. If a contemporary minister were to follow Elijah’s example, it is likely that sensational headlines would emerge, criticizing the pastor for soliciting aid from a widow, a woman already burdened with the responsibility of caring for her children. However, it is crucial to differentiate between those who exploit others for personal gain and those who act in accordance with divine instruction. In Elijah’s case, God had already provided for him through unconventional means, such as a raven, indicating that His ability to sustain His servants is not limited to human resources. The true purpose of Elijah’s visit was to serve as God’s representative, ensuring the widow’s preservation and demonstrating the profound ways in which God works through His faithful servants.
In a moment of desperation, a widow approached the prophet Elijah, revealing her dire circumstances. She explained that all she had left was a small amount of flour and oil, which she intended to use to prepare a final meal for herself and her son before they succumbed to starvation. This situation illustrates a profound truth: when one is faced with the end of their resources, it is often at that critical juncture that God may require a step of faith. Elijah reassured her, instructing her not to fear but to first prepare a small cake for him, promising that her supplies would not run out. This act of faith was pivotal, as it demonstrated her willingness to trust in God’s provision even when her situation seemed hopeless.
Following Elijah’s guidance, the widow acted in accordance with his words, and as a result, her flour and oil miraculously sustained her and her household for many days. The biblical account emphasizes that her supplies did not diminish, affirming the promise made by Elijah in the name of the Lord. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of reliance on God, especially in challenging times. It calls for a reevaluation of one’s priorities, particularly in financial matters, encouraging individuals to honor God with their resources. When God asks for what little we have, it is essential to recognize that He is preparing to do something extraordinary, and our cooperation is vital for the manifestation of His plans.