Stewardship is a concept that runs throughout the Bible.
It is the idea that everything we have—our time, money, talents, and even the earth itself—belongs to God.
He has entrusted these things to us, not to own, but to manage wisely.
The way we handle what God has given us reflects our faith, priorities, and understanding of His purpose for our lives.
But what exactly does the Bible say about stewardship?
How can we become better stewards of the resources God has placed in our hands?
Let’s explore what Scripture teaches about stewardship and how we can apply it to our daily lives.
God Owns Everything
The foundation of biblical stewardship is the understanding that everything belongs to God.
Psalm 24:1 declares, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”
We may work hard, earn money, and acquire possessions, but ultimately, everything comes from God.
This truth changes how we see our responsibilities.
If something belongs to us, we can use it however we want.
But if something belongs to God, we must use it in a way that honors Him.
1 Corinthians 4:2 reminds us, “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.”
God has given each of us a role in managing His resources, and He expects us to be faithful stewards.
Stewardship of Money
One of the most talked-about aspects of stewardship in the Bible is money.
Jesus spoke about money often, not because it was the most important thing, but because it reveals what is in our hearts.
Matthew 6:21 says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
How we use our money reflects what we truly value.
The Bible teaches that wealth is not bad, but it must be handled with wisdom.
Proverbs 3:9-10 encourages, “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
Giving to God first, before spending on ourselves, is a way of acknowledging that everything comes from Him.
Another key lesson on financial stewardship is found in 1 Timothy 6:10: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
Money itself is not the problem—it is the love of money that leads to destruction.
Good stewardship means using money wisely, not letting it control our hearts.
Stewardship of Time
Time is one of the greatest gifts God has given us, and He expects us to use it wisely.
Ephesians 5:15-16 says, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
Every person has the same 24 hours in a day, but how we use that time matters.
Do we spend it on things that bring us closer to God and fulfill His purpose?
Or do we waste it on distractions and things that have no lasting value?
Psalm 90:12 offers a prayer: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
A wise steward recognizes that time is limited and chooses to use it in ways that honor God.
This includes time spent in worship, serving others, and caring for our families.
Stewardship of Talents and Abilities
God has given each person unique talents and abilities, and He expects us to use them for His glory.
1 Peter 4:10 says, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
Our skills and talents are not just for personal success.
They are meant to bless others and build God’s kingdom.
In the Parable of the Talents, found in Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus tells the story of a master who gives three servants different amounts of money.
Two of them invest and multiply what they were given, while the third buries his money in the ground out of fear.
The master praises the first two but rebukes the third for wasting his opportunity.
This parable teaches that God expects us to use what He has given us, not hide it.
When we use our talents wisely, we bring joy to God and make a difference in the world.
Stewardship of the Earth
God has also entrusted us with the care of His creation.
Genesis 2:15 says, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”
This verse shows that from the very beginning, humans were given responsibility over the earth.
Unfortunately, many people have treated the planet carelessly, wasting its resources and damaging its beauty.
Good stewardship means taking care of what God has made, whether through conservation, responsible use of resources, or simply appreciating the beauty of His creation.
Psalm 8:6 reminds us, “You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet.”
As stewards of the earth, we should be mindful of how we use its resources, ensuring that we preserve it for future generations.
The Blessings of Good Stewardship
When we manage what God has given us wisely, He blesses us in return.
Luke 16:10 says, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.”
God often tests us with small responsibilities before giving us greater ones.
If we are faithful in managing our time, money, and abilities well, He will entrust us with more opportunities.
Proverbs 11:25 teaches, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
Good stewardship brings joy, peace, and even more resources to bless others.
It is not about hoarding wealth or time for ourselves, but about using what we have for God’s glory.
The Danger of Poor Stewardship
Just as good stewardship brings blessings, poor stewardship has consequences.
Luke 12:48 warns, “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
If we waste what God has given us, we miss out on the greater things He has planned.
Proverbs 21:20 says, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.”
Being careless with resources leads to loss, regret, and missed opportunities.
How to Become a Better Steward
Stewardship is a daily practice, and there are ways we can grow in it.
First, recognize that everything belongs to God.
Psalm 50:10 reminds us, “For every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills.”
This mindset helps us handle resources with care and humility.
Second, be intentional about giving.
2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
Giving generously is a sign of trust in God’s provision.
Third, make wise financial choices.
Avoid unnecessary debt, budget wisely, and live within your means.
Proverbs 22:7 warns, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.”
Financial stewardship brings freedom and peace.
Fourth, use time wisely.
Prioritize prayer, worship, and time with family.
Do not waste time on things that do not add value to your life or your relationship with God.
Finally, ask God for wisdom.
James 1:5 encourages, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
When we seek God’s guidance, He will help us manage everything well.
Final Thoughts
The Bible teaches that stewardship is not just about money—it is about managing everything God has entrusted to us.
Our time, talents, resources, and even the earth itself are gifts from God, and He expects us to use them wisely.
When we are faithful stewards, we experience God’s blessings and live with purpose.
By honoring God with what He has given us, we reflect His goodness and become a light to others.
If we want to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” we must start practicing good stewardship today.