The Evangel Dean Basic Training Resource Handbook

S EMINARS • 87

A. Stewardship involves courage and sacrifice of an extreme kind; We are called to engage His work wholeheartedly but not in a self-dependent fashion; playing it safe is the sure way to lose what you have been given. B. He expects us to invest, to discipline ourselves to enjoy and employ his resources in such a way as to glorify him in every dimension of our stewardship. C. The over-zealous minister may think that everything depends on his or her efforts, but this is the height of selfish preoccupation and blatant pride; ultimately, only God can ensure fruit or transformation in anyone’s life. Ps. 127.1 – Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. Ps. 33.16-20 – The king is not saved by his great army; a warrior is not delivered by his great strength. [17] The war horse is a false hope for salvation, and by its great might it cannot rescue. [18] Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love, [19] that he may deliver their soul from death and keep them alive in famine. [20] Our soul waits for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. The stewardship axiom: God never calls his person or his people to do anything without also making provision for them to possess everything they may need in order to accomplish his will. Phil. 4.11-13 (NASB) – Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. [12] I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. [13] I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

This principle will allow you to . . .

• Chill hard with the Lord, even in the midst of the most difficult situations • Not overestimate your significance or importance as you serve Christ