All Scripture references are taken from The New Living Translation (NLT)
In Luke 12:13-14, a man in the crowd calls out to Jesus, saying, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.” Jesus responds, “Friend, who made me a judge over you to decide such things as that?”. Jesus’ reply is surprising. Instead of settling the dispute, Jesus redirects the conversation to something much deeper: the condition of the heart.
This moment is more than a refusal to intervene—it’s an invitation to rethink what really matters. Jesus goes on to warn, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own” (Luke 12:15). In just a few words, He shifts the focus from earthly possessions to eternal priorities.
For those of us spending time in daily devotion, this passage speaks powerfully. It invites us to reflect: What are we truly treasuring? Where is our heart invested?
Time is one of the most valuable gifts God gives us. Yet, how easy it is to let it slip away fruitlessly in pursuit of things that don’t last. Jesus’ words remind us that life isn’t about accumulation—it’s about love, faithfulness, and eternal impact.
As we think about how we spend our day, are there moments we can reclaim for God—perhaps a just few quiet minutes in prayer, a phone call to encourage someone, or a helping hand extended in love? Stewarding our time means being intentional, not hurried. As Jesus later says in Luke 12:34, “Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.” When we offer our time to God, our hearts follow.
Each of us has been blessed with talents—skills, passions, and spiritual gifts. The parable of the rich fool, which follows in Luke 12:16-21, tells of a man who stored up earthly wealth but failed to invest in God’s kingdom. He lived only for himself, and in the end, he lost everything. Our talents were never meant to be hidden or hoarded. They have been given for a purpose: to serve, encourage, and glorify God. Whether you’re gifted in hospitality, teaching, creating, or listening, your talents can, and should, be a powerful expression of love. Stewardship means asking: How can I use what I’ve been given to bless others today?
Money and possessions are not evil—but they can easily become our focus. The man in Luke 12:13 thought an inheritance would secure his future. Jesus, however, invites us to think differently: “Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven!” (Luke 12:33).
Stewarding treasure isn’t about how much we have, but how willing we are to use it for God’s purposes. Generosity is an act of trust—believing that God will provide as we give to those in need, support ministries, or invest in others’ lives. As we review our finances, let us consider: Am I budgeting with generosity in mind? Am I storing treasure in heaven?
True stewardship flows from a heart aligned with God’s. It’s not just about managing resources wisely, but about surrendering them to God’s will. Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” When we live this truth, stewardship becomes an act of worship. Let’s take a moment today to reflect on how we’re using our time, talents, and treasure. Let’s ask God to show us where our hearts truly are and where He might be calling us to live more generously and intentionally.
An anonymous philosopher once said, “The best things in life aren’t things at all”. Let me suggest instead that they are moments with God, acts of love, shared blessings, and lives changed by grace. As we learn to steward all we have with eternity in mind, we discover the joy of living not for ourselves, but for the One who gave us everything.
Blessings on you and yours, Jim Black