Flourish: Living a Fruitful Lifeਨਮੂਨਾ

DAY 7 / The Silo – Overflowing with Blessing

Can God trust you to steward a significant harvest well?

In Genesis 37-50, we read Joseph’s roller coaster of a story that starts with him having a dream that offended his brothers, leading them to sell him into slavery in Egypt. Through a wild series of events, Joseph finds himself second in command to Pharaoh. Through his leadership, they managed to store up 7 years of abundant crops in a way that saved the lives of Egypt, his family, and beyond, when the 7 years of famine came.

In a world that encourages overindulgence and rewarding ourselves because we “deserve it”, the idea of being disciplined can be countercultural. But how we steward the harvest we’ve been given today will greatly determine whether or not we’re able to enjoy that harvest tomorrow and beyond, and how many others will enjoy it too.

Some Christians suggest that poverty is a desired spiritual discipline, so as not to get attached to material possessions and all the downfalls that come with their pursuit. (In the words of philosopher Notorius B.I.G., “Mo money mo problems.”)

Dallas Willard takes a different approach, advocating that Christians are indeed called to steward wealth and resources in a way that honours God. He writes, “to assume the responsibility for the right use and guidance of possessions through ownership is far more of a discipline of the spirit than poverty itself. Our possessions vastly extend the range over which God rules through our faith.”

When we experience more margin in our calendar, increased mental capacity (such as periods of space to sit with our own thoughts), a bonus at work, or any other growth in resources, we quickly realise that it takes more discipline to steward this well than to squander it.

God’s desire is for you to enjoy the fruit of your labour and bless others with it. This includes your time, energy, finances, relationships, gifts, and any other resource or capacity that you are entrusted with.

Be encouraged by the fact that the dreams God has planted in your heart are not just to benefit you, but also those whom you influence. So dream big and confidently pray bold prayers. When the seeds you’ve diligently sown reap a plentiful harvest – ask Him to help you steward it with wisdom, discipline, and sensitivity to His guidance. God wants to love others through you.

Reflection:

In what ways are you already wealthy or anticipating a harvest in the future? How can you steward these blessings for His glory?