People have a natural tendency to use what they have to benefit themselves. Whether it be financial means, assets, time, or talents and abilities; we naturally want to employ these things for our benefit.

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace

1 Peter 4:10

Christians are expected to steward what God has gifted to us to serve His church for His glory. It’s not for ourselves. Obviously, we use our gifts and means to support ourselves and family. But to what degree do we direct all of these resources towards ourselves and our families? Scripture doesn’t give a percentage in which we should direct our resources inward. Some Christians feel convicted that scripture directs us to give 10% of our income to the church. They should follow that conviction. But this concerns more than money; we are gifted with far more than financial means. All of these gifts and resources are to be employed to serve the Body of Christ.

What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?

1 Corinthians 4:7b

God has given you specific gifts. It could be wealth. It could be wisdom or an ability to lead. It could be time. These gifts will change throughout your life. But what never changes is the expectation to use what you have to serve the Body and honor the Lord with it. Not only is this a clear directive throughout scripture, it is a great privilege. You see, when we do not use our gifts to serve, we never find true joy and peace. It is when we use them to serve His Bride that we find real joy and the peace.