The Goehner Group

In resource development we emphasize planning and strategy. Nehemiah is a sterling example of someone who adopted God’s strategy. As the king’s cup bearer, Nehemiah had a grasp of palace politics. He was both highly trusted and considered very stable, yet he risked it all because of his passion for God and his understanding of stewardship principles.

Nehemiah had heard about the walls not being completed in Jerusalem. He cries out to God for wisdom and guidance, seeking courage to address this problem. Reading on, we discover:

• Nehemiah had pure motives. He spent hours in prayer as a broken, repentant man, aware that the reason for the problem was Israel’s sin. At the same time, he asked God to speak to the person with the resources.

• Nehemiah had a sense of mission. He was called to rebuild the city. He had a focused plan and did his homework so he knew what was needed to complete the project.

• Nehemiah asked directly for what was needed. In Chapter 2, Nehemiah comes before the King looking dejected. He risked his life with this sad appearance and was questioned by the king regarding his countenance. After a quick prayer, he explained his cause and made a direct request for funds.

• Nehemiah understood the resources were God’s, not his. It was God’s city he was rebuilding, God’s kingdom he was attempting to expand.

• Nehemiah got a response from the king: What is your cause? What is your need? How long will you be gone? The king says yes by asking, ‘How long will you be gone?’

In 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Paul does not condemn wealth. Instead, he instructs Timothy to teach the church how to use their wealth. Paul tells them not to put their hope in money, but to trust the God who will meet their needs.

In verse 18, Paul instructs Timothy to teach the breadth and width of godly stewardship. First, people are to give themselves in personal commitment, as the Macedonians had done in their example of sacrificial giving. Second, we must touch others with our time and talent, reaching out to hurting people and making a difference. Finally, we’re to be generous in sharing our resources. Stewardship begins with a personal commitment to Christ. It is only after that foundational commitment that we can have the proper motivation to reach out and give to others.

Paul concludes by informing Timothy that as Christians invest in the kingdom they’re building up treasure in heaven. This is the same principle Jesus taught in Matthew 6: where your treasure is, your heart will be also.