When something takes our heart away from the Lord, it is an idol. Every sin is a matter of idolatry. We are led astray from fearing, loving, and trusting in God above all things. As we trust in wealth, or effort, or pride, or greed, or lust, or sloth, we are really doing nothing other than allowing ourselves to be held captive to worthless idols.

In the same way, unfaithful stewardship is a matter of idolatry. When we hoard our resources for fear that we might be left with nothing, we fail to confess that Jesus is Lord of our life and will provide for us. So, in the area of stewardship, we are very often very Corinthian. We are led astray by worthless idols.

But it is the Holy Spirit that leads us to forsake these idols and embrace the wonderful, liberating truth that Jesus is Lord! This means it is not our decision in matters of stewardship. It is really the Holy Spirit that is leading. What you make as a commitment to the Lord’s work is not your decision. It is guided by the Holy Spirit. The only thing we can really do is get in the way.

Today, as you prayerfully consider your stewardship of the Lord’s simple gifts, pray that the Holy Spirit will lead you away from worthless idols and by His power confess with your life, your lips and your gifts that Jesus is Lord. Let Him speak through you today!

_{©2019 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used with permission.}