Qualities of a Christian Steward

A Christian steward is compassionate.
Christian stewards are caretakers and caregivers. They concern themselves with the distribution of gifts and resources so that all might benefit (Genesis 2:4-9; Matthew 14:13-21, 25:31-46; 1 Corinthians 12:12-28; James 2:14-17).

A Christian steward is content.
Christian stewards acknowledge that their strength comes from God through whom they can do all things regardless of how many or how few material possessions they have (Philippians 4:11-13; 1Timothy 6:6-10).

A Christian steward is generous.
Christian stewards give whatever is needed and whenever it is needed (Proverbs 11:24-29; Mark 10:17-22; Luke 12:13-21; 2 Corinthians 8:1-15; 2 Corinthians 9:6-15; Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Timothy 6:17-19).

A Christian steward is grateful.
Christian stewards value what has been entrusted to their care and protect and preserve everything as if it were their own, yet acknowledging that the earth and all that is in it belong to God (Psalm 24; Psalm 92:1-4; Luke 16:19-31; Philippians 4:6).

A Christian steward is loving.
Christian stewards know that the Lord requires justice and kindness and humility, and they follow the two greatest commandments (Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Micah 6:6-8; Mark 12:28-34; Luke 10:29-37; Luke 11:42; 1 Corinthians 13:3; 1 Corinthians 16:13-14; 2 Timothy 1:7; 1 Peter 4:8-11).

A Christian steward is loyal.
Christian stewards serve God faithfully, remembering who they are, whose they are, and why they are here on earth (Matthew 6:19-21, 24; Luke 14:25-33).

A Christian steward is obedient.
Christian stewards obey God by setting aside a part of all their income for others (Deuteronomy 14:22-29; Deuteronomy 26:1-18; Malachi 3:6-18; Luke 18:18-30; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2).

A Christian steward is prayerful.
Christian stewards acknowledge the greatness and goodness of God through prayer, fellowship, study, worship, and reflection (Isaiah 40:28-31; Psalm 145; Jeremiah 29:11-14; John 6:25-40; Romans 12:1-21).

A Christian steward is responsible.
Christian stewards realize that caring for God’s creation and wisely managing resources never ends (Genesis 41:37-45; Numbers 18:25-32; 2 Samuel 24:18-25; Matthew 28:16-20).

A Christian steward sacrifices.
Christian stewards follow Jesus’ teaching to sacrifice what they have out of gratitude for their many blessings (Mark 12:41-44).

A Christian steward shares.
Christian stewards have learned to distribute fairly so that none will be in need (Luke 19:1-10; Acts 4:32-35; Acts 20:34-35).

A Christian steward is trustworthy.
Christian stewards can be trusted to make wise decisions concerning the resources placed within their care (Matthew 25:14-30; Luke 16:10-13; 1 Corinthians 4:1-2).

(From the Center for Christian Stewardship of the United Methodist Church www.gbod.org/stewardship)