Article: Stewardship in a Materialistic World: Letting Go to Gain Eternal Riches | Jacob Varghese
We are living in a world driven by the pursuit of wealth, possessions, and material gain. The struggle against materialism is not unique to the present day but has been a challenge faced by Christians throughout history. The desire for material possessions and the pursuit of wealth can be powerful, often leading believers astray from their faith. However, Christianity provides a counterbalance to this temptation, reminding its followers that true wealth is found in spiritual treasures that transcend the temporal. It’s a calling to live in the world but not be of the world, to be good stewards of the resources God has provided, and to use material blessings as a means to further His kingdom. The battle against materialism is ongoing, but it is a battle that we as Christians are called to engage in, making conscious choices that reflect our commitment to a faith that transcends the riches of this world. The Bible offers invaluable guidance on how to navigate this challenge by emphasising the importance of stewardship and the willingness to let go of earthly treasures for the sake of eternal riches.
The Bible is filled with teachings that guide us on the matter of material possessions and wealth. One of the most well-known verses is found in Matthew 6:19-21, where Jesus instructs His followers: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This profound teaching highlights the transience of earthly possessions and the necessity of investing in eternal riches. It serves as the foundation for us to reevaluate our priorities, recognizing that our true wealth lies in our relationship with God and the eternal life He offers.
Generosity, the act of giving, is a fundamental principle in Christianity. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, it says, “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” By willingly letting go of material possessions through acts of generosity, we participate in God’s divine economy and store up treasures in heaven. Contentment is another essential aspect of Christian stewardship. 1 Timothy 6:6 reminds us, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” Learning to be content with what we have, rather than constantly craving more, allows us to release our grip on materialism and focus on spiritual growth. Matthew 6:33 encourages believers to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. By aligning our lives with this principle, we can put God’s purposes above our own desires for material gain, which often leads us to a life filled with meaning and purpose. As Christians, we can also invest in the lives of others through acts of love, kindness, and support. By letting go of our time, resources, and talents to serve others, we follow Jesus’s example of selfless service and build treasures in heaven through the impact we make on people’s lives.
In a world consumed by the pursuit of material gain, we are called to a higher standard of stewardship. By letting go of the transitory treasures of this world, we find a richer, more profound purpose in our life. This purpose is rooted in our relationship with God, our generosity, contentment, prioritisation of the Kingdom, and investment in the lives of others. In doing so, we discover the true meaning of wealth and a lasting, eternal richness that far surpasses anything this world can offer.
-ADVERTISEMENT-