*GUIDEPOST*

Amongst other things, our life here on earth is a trust from God. Our time on earth, our energy, intelligence, opportunities, relationships, and resources are all gifts from God that He entrusted to our care and management. *We are stewards of whatever God gives us. We own nothing.*

*This concept of stewardship begins with the recognition that God is the owner of everything and everyone on earth.*

*Our society says, "if you don't own it, you won't take care of it." But let's live by a higher standard, "Because God owns it, I must take the best care of it that I can." Those who are trusted with something valuable must show they are worthy of that trust.*

The story of the talents drives the message home. A businessman entrusts his wealth to the care of his servants while he's away. On his return, he evaluates each servant's responsibility and rewards them accordingly. *From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.*

*The gift of today is only a call to (more) responsibility. The more God gives you, the more responsible He expects you to be.*

                                                                                                                                                                  *RAPHAEL*