Getting one’s own affairs in order is the first responsibility of a Christian steward. This may seem self-interested or even selfish. But it’s a bit like the airline safety announcement reminding passengers to secure their own air masks before assisting others. People with insufficient financial resources or those who mismanage their resources are unable to respond adequately to God’s call to generosity. 

Moreover, believing that God lovingly provides for our needs, we align ourselves with God’s purposes when we exercise prudence in caring for our needs and those of our households. Yet many people at all income levels struggle with their finances due to a lack of basic financial management skills.

Jon Sanders is one of the co-founders of EntrePastors, a company helping pastors identify and use their God-given talents to develop additional streams of income and achieve financial freedom.