“Over the king’s treasuries was Azmaveth the son of Adiel; and over the treasuries in the country, in the cities, in the villages, and in the towers, was Jonathan the son of Uzziah; and over those who did the work of the field for tilling the soil was Ezri the son of Chelub; and over the vineyards was Shimei the Ramathite; and over the produce of the vineyards for the wine cellars was Zabdi the Shiphmite. Over the olive and sycamore trees in the Shephelah was Baal-hanan the Gederite; and over the stores of oil was Joash. Over the herds that pastured in Sharon was Shitrai the Sharonite; over the herds in the valleys was Shaphat the son of Adlai. Over the camels was Obil the Ishmaelite; and over the donkeys was Jehdeiah the Meronothite. Over the flocks was Jaziz the Hagrite. All these were stewards of King David’s property.
“Jonathan, David’s uncle, was a counselor, being a man of understanding and a scribe. He and Jehiel the son of Hachmoni attended the king’s sons. Ahithophel was the king’s counselor, and Hushai the Archite was the king’s friend. Joab was commander of the king’s army.” 1 Chronicles 27:25-34
“Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.” Luke 12:48
King David, steward of God’s promise and the seed of our Savior, understood his charge to take care of all that was entrusted to him. He had been given much, and he knew much was required, so he wisely and humbly ordered his kingdom to run smoothly and well. God gave him insight to see needs in his government, recognize individuals’ gifts, and assign them accordingly. (2 Samuel 7:18-29; 16:7; Matthew 1:1-17)
The Lord has appointed each of us in His varied kingdom a kingdom of our own to mind, whether our body, family, or broader reach of responsibility or service. Each has its challenges, yet we have the same Spirit to lead and enable us. How well do we understand our role as stewards of God’s grace and gifts? (Matthew 25:14-30; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 12:4-7,11)
What areas in our lives and responsibilities do we prefer to tend, and which do we neglect? The Lord expects care and fruitfulness in all He entrusts to us, not just our pet interests. What decisions are we making to nurture our minds, bodies, spirits as well as our belongings? Would we be honest and repent of neglect and sloth, then plan and take steps to spend our time and resources efficiently, to yield maximum spiritual return, strength to the church, and glory to God? (Luke 13:6-9)
“A charge to keep I have,
a God to glorify,
a never dying soul to save,
and fit it for the sky.
To serve the present age,
my calling to fulfill,
O may it all my pow’rs engage
to do my Master’s will!
Arm me with watchful care
as in Thy sight to live,
and now Thy servant, Lord, prepare
a strict account to give!
Help me to watch and pray,
and still on Thee rely,
O let me not my trust betray,
but press to realms on high.” ~Charles Wesley (1762)
Father, teach me to order well the kingdom You’ve entrusted to me. Provide people who share a vision for Your greatness, that together, we can lift high Your cause and name.
As the rain and snow 