Video Ministries

Recognizing God's Ownership

The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver.
Ps. 119:72.

The psalmist's words, "The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands
of gold and silver," state that which is true from other than a religious
point of view. They state an absolute truth, and one that is recognized in
the business world. Even in this age of passion for money-getting, when
competition is so sharp, and methods are so unscrupulous, it is still widely
acknowledged that, for a young man starting in life, integrity, diligence,
temperance, purity, and thrift constitute a better capital than any amount
of mere money. . . .

That which lies at the foundation of business integrity and of true success
is the recognition of God's ownership. The Creator of all things, He is the
original proprietor. We are His stewards. All that we have is a trust from
Him, to be used according to His direction.

This is an obligation that rests upon every human being. It has to do with
the whole sphere of human activity. Whether we recognize it or not, we are
stewards, supplied from God with talents and facilities, and placed in the
world to do a work appointed by Him.

To every man is given "his work" (Mark 13:34)--the work for which his
capabilities adapt him--the work which will result in greatest good to
himself and to his fellowmen, and in greatest honor to God.

Thus our business or calling is a part of God's great plan, and, so long as
it is conducted in accordance with His will, He Himself is responsible for
the results. "Labourers together with God" (1 Corinthians 3:9), our part is
faithful compliance with His directions. Thus there is no place for anxious
care. Diligence, fidelity, care-taking, thrift, and discretion are called
for. Every faculty is to be exercised to its highest capacity. But the
dependence will be, not on the successful outcome of our efforts, but on the
promise of God. The word that fed Israel in the desert, and sustained Elijah
through the time of famine, has the same power today. "Be not therefore
anxious, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink?" (Matt. 6:31,
RV). . . .

He who gives men power to get wealth has with the gift bound up an
obligation. Of all that we acquire He claims a specified portion. The tithe
is the Lord's. . . . "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse" (Mal.
3:10) is God's command. No appeal is made to gratitude or to generosity.
This is a matter of simple honesty. The tithe is the Lord's; and He bids us
return to Him that which is His own.

"It is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful" (1 Cor. 4:2). If
honesty is an essential principle of business life, must we not recognize
our obligation to God--the obligation that underlies every other?
(Education, pp. 137-139).

< From Lift Him Up - Page 304

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