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The Stewardship of Life
The Stewardship of Life
The Stewardship of Life
Series
Contributed by Donald Mcculley on Dec 5, 2011
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 11:1-10
Denomination: Baptist
ECCLESIASTES 11:1-10
Introduction: A steward is someone who manages what belongs to someone else. “All” of life is a
stewardship issue! Remember it is required of a steward that he be found faithful.
In chapter 11 Solomon teaches us about this subject. What all is involved in being a faithful steward of
life?
See Matthew 6:19-24, 33. Are you investing your time, talents and treasure in god’s kingdom – His
work and church?
A. The Requirement (v1) – “Cast” = not throw, but send. It’s the picture of someone who engages in
commercial enterprises involving overseas trade (waters). Solomon says release it, let it go. Ask God to
send you into his kingdom. “Here am I, send me.” Give all you have to further His cause. I’m afraid our
pews are full of “rich young rulers.” They look good, but in reality, have missed the kingdom!
B. The Result (v1) – Trust me, it won’t sink but will eventually pay off. Proverbs 19:17, 21:13. God has
a long memory.
C. The Regions (v2) – “Portions” = not a pitiful and pathetic few. “Seven/eight” = diversify, expand.
“Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”
D. The Reality (v2) – Just because we are generous does not immune us from problems or disasters.
Bad things, misfortune, pitfalls and hardships may come but give yourself anyway and trust the results
with God. He has promised to repay!
A. Love (v7) – “Light/sun” = describes the warmth of God’s love. He gives us permission to enjoy him
and ourselves. He can lift the doom and gloom. I wonder how many can’t receive God’s love because
they are “mad” at Him for any number of reasons.
B. Laugh (v8) – Let happiness pervade your whole life all of your days. Every day is a gift from God –
laugh a little. Happiness is a choice! Some young people can’t be happy (parents/peer
pressure/hormones). Some married people say “I’m just not happy in my marriage.” Quit looking for
someone else to make you happy. It’s your choice. Parents, singles and senior adults come up with the
same line, “I’m not happy.” Why? Because you choose not to be happy.
C. Live (v9) – This is not a hedonistic agenda. Swindoll writes, “God inserts just enough warnings to
keep us obedient.” Don’t go wild with your liberty. Be balanced. Judgment day is coming.
D. Lose (v10) – “Anxiety” = vexation. This is anger mixed with resentment which leads to a rebellious
spirit. Put away the things that would bring the body pain.
Conclusion: Make the investment. Deal with the inevitable. Trust the invisible. Accept the invitation. Be
a good steward.