A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

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A Compe l l i ng Tes t imony

b. Covetousness (greed) is idolatry.

(1) Col. 3.5 – Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. (2) Eph. 5.5 – For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.

3. Strive to be a faithful steward over all that God provides.

a. God’s steward is not to be greedy for gain, Titus 1.7 – For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain.

b. Recognize it as the property of the Lord, Prov. 3.9-10 – Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; [10] then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.

c. Learn to work faithfully and firmly according to a flexible budget: manage your resources for the Lord.

(1) We are to be wise and faithful in our management of the Lord’s bounty, Luke 12.42 – And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time?” (2) We must strive to be trustworthy in all our duties, 1 Cor. 4.2 – Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.

(3) We are to steward or manage our gifts according the amount we have received, 1 Pet. 4.10 – As