Director of affairs
STEWARDSHIP…is defined as the office, duties and obligations of a steward. So, what is a steward? One employed in a large household or estate to manage domestic concerns. Primarily, it is ‘one who directs affairs’.
Scripture addresses this in numerous places. I Corinthians 4.2 sets the standard of conduct. “Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.” This would include being loyal to the person or persons they are serving. Honesty comes to mind since they are handling another’s assets. The temptation is always looming to ‘skim’ something off the top that might not be noticed. “I deserve this—I work hard and am not, in my mind, being compensated adequately. They won’t miss this small amount.” Responsibility comes with the role of a steward.
Let’s think about your stewardship. Most people go immediately to financial when thinking of the subject. Not incorrectly, since all your possessions are the Lord’s. Time also comes to mind. Are you managing your days well, making the most of them to produce a good return on the ways you invest your time. What about your gifts or talents? Are you utilizing them wisely; maximizing their effectiveness? We could go on.
Steward of God’s possession’s
Dads, you’ve been granted children. They don’t actually belong to you. They are on loan in this world from the One to whom they do belong. So, in effect, you are a steward of God’s possessions. And I might add; his most treasured possessions! Are you being faithful in your discipleship of your kiddos? The last words Jesus spoke that were recorded in Matthew were these. I’ll paraphrase. “While you are going, make disciples for the gospel, beginning—get this—in Jerusalem (your home ground, your family, those closest to you).” Then he goes on to say to do the same in other arenas outside your family. Isn’t it so very easy to disciple others as compared to yours? Not near as sticky.
Just think how Christ stated it; Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the uttermost parts of the earth. What many of us do is reverse it, especially dads. Go to the uttermost parts (no one knows you; that’s safe); maybe some people not like you (see me go, no prejudice in me); and there are a lot of needy people in your city and state (all good, my man); and then my family (I know my wife, church and others will do a great job with my kids). A lot of merit badges, but an emptiness created by avoiding the most important role any father has—being a disciple-maker of your own children, and wife.
Family first
Stewards are faithful. This reverse psychology is unfaithful. Would you agree? There is absolutely nothing wrong with discipleship in areas where God opens the door. But I say—since I’m writing this, I get the right to say it—you are being disobedient to his command, and you have no permission to go to these places if you are not at the same time, or previously, discipling your own. Now, I said it. I feel so much better. Dads, God has dropped them into your lap. Why hand them off to someone else? You are robbing yourself and them of the joy that comes from this discipleship relationship and the outcomes. It glorifies him.
John wrote; “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 Jn. 1.4) Reread this verse, carefully! I’ll highlight the core message—no greater joy—do you see this? Nothing can be more joyful, nothing! So, Dad, how do you assure yourself of this joy? Right, by making sure you, yourself, train them to walk in truth.
Why settle for good when the opportunity for best has been granted to you? If you aren’t doing this; stop, confess, repent and ask God to help you fulfill his plan for you and your family. Then, watch him make you into a faithful steward. Your children and wife will rejoice with you. So will the Lord!
