Time, Talent, Treasure, and These Things Too
orKey Verse:
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” — 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV)
The word steward may sound a bit old-fashioned in today’s world, but it holds deep significance in the Christian life. A steward is someone who manages something that doesn’t belong to them—think of Joseph in Pharaoh’s house, or a servant entrusted to care for a king’s estate while the king is away. The steward’s job? Take care of what the master owns, use it wisely, and be ready to give an account when the king returns.
That’s us.
We’re not owners. We’re managers. Everything we have—our time, talent, treasure, and more—has been entrusted to us by God. And the calling is clear: Use it for His glory.
Let’s break this down.
Give of Your Time
Time is one of the most valuable resources we have. Unlike money, we can’t make more of it. Once it’s spent, it’s gone.
But here’s the challenge: we often treat time like it’s ours. We cram it full of activities, distractions, and deadlines. And while productivity isn’t bad, it’s easy to forget that every second is a gift from God. The question is—are we using it for Him?
Ephesians 5:15–16 says, “Look carefully then how you walk… making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” The older translations call it “redeeming the time.” That means intentionally buying back moments from being wasted and using them for Kingdom purposes.
Think about it: How much time do you spend scrolling, streaming, stressing, or sleeping in? What if even a fraction of that time was redirected to prayer, encouraging a friend, serving a neighbor, or studying God’s Word?
Give of Your Talent
God has given each of us unique gifts and abilities. Some can teach. Others can build. Some sing. Others organize. Some write, cook, fix, lead, or quietly encourage.
Your talent isn’t random. It’s intentional.
Romans 12:6 says, “Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them…” That last part is key. Use them. Don’t bury them, hoard them, or wait until you feel more confident or qualified.
God doesn’t need your talent, but He wants you to use it. Remember, He can feed 5,000 with five loaves and two fish. He’s not looking for impressive resumes. He’s looking for willing hearts.
Give of Your Treasure
Money can be a touchy subject, but Jesus talked about it often. Why? For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matthew 6:21).
God owns everything—including your bank account. He doesn’t need your money, but giving trains your heart to trust Him and treasure Him above all else.
The tithe is a starting point, not a ceiling. Generosity should flow from gratitude, not guilt. Whether it’s supporting your local church, giving to missionaries, sponsoring a child, sponsoring parachurch organizations, or quietly helping someone in need, every dollar surrendered to God’s kingdom echoes into eternity.
Give of These Things Too
Time. Talent. Treasure. These are the classic trio when it comes to stewardship. But let’s not stop there. What else has God given you?
How about your table?
Hospitality is a powerful ministry. When you invite someone into your home for a meal, you’re creating space for connection, encouragement, and community. Jesus often did some of His most important work around a table.
What about your trials?
God doesn’t waste pain. Your story—even the hard parts—can minister to someone else walking a similar road. Comfort others with the comfort you’ve received (2 Corinthians 1:3–4).
What about your influence?
Whether you have 5 followers or 5,000, people are watching your life. How you speak, how you react, how you serve—these all have eternal impact. Use your platform, no matter its size, to point people to Jesus.
It all matters. God has entrusted you with more than you might realize.
Remember Who the Owner Is
Let’s not forget—God doesn’t need anything from us. He can work miracles without our help. But in His grace, He invites us to participate in His Kingdom work. What an honor!
Imagine a steward serving in a kingdom where the king is currently away. He knows the king will return. So he doesn’t waste time. He doesn’t misuse the king’s possessions. He serves faithfully, joyfully, and expectantly.
That’s us. Jesus is the King, and He’s coming back. Until then, we are His stewards.
Reflection Questions:
- Which area—time, talent, treasure, or “these things too”—do you most struggle to surrender?
- Are you living as an owner or a steward?
- What is one specific way you can offer something to God today?
Prayer:
Lord, everything I have belongs to You. Teach me to be a faithful steward of my time, my talents, my treasure, and all the other things You’ve entrusted to me. Help me not to hold anything too tightly, but to live open-handed and generous. May I use what You’ve given to glorify You and serve others, until the day You return. In Jesus’ name, amen.
