Every gift we have is meant to be used to serve others.
“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”1 Peter 4:10 (KJV)
What does “Stewardship” mean in 1 Peter 4:10?
The Greek word oikonomos means steward, the manager of a household. Manifold comes from a word meaning many-colored, describing the rich variety of God's grace.
Going deeper
Peter says that every believer has received a gift, and that each of us is a steward of God's grace. A steward does not own what he manages. He looks after it for the master and uses it for the master's purposes. That changes how we think about our abilities. They are not primarily for our own advancement. They are given so that we can serve.
The phrase manifold grace suggests that God's gifts come in a wonderful variety. Some people are gifted at teaching, others at hospitality, encouragement, organization, or practical help. No gift is small or unimportant, and the church needs all of them. If you are unsure what your gift is, ask what you enjoy doing and what others say you do well. Then look for one way to use it for someone else this week. What you have been given is meant to be shared. A steward's joy is in being faithful.
Reflect
What gift or ability has God given you, and how could you use it to serve someone this week?
Pray
Father, thank You for the gifts You have given me. Help me to be a good steward of them, and show me how to use them to serve others. In Jesus' name, amen.
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