Estate planning is an important step in being a good steward of that which the Lord has blessed you. An estate plan normally involves creating wills and trusts, naming beneficiaries for financial accounts, giving permission for financial and health concerns should you become incapacitated, and making plans to distribute estate assets to family and ministry after death. There is an additional estate planning asset to consider when making plans. Perhaps you have never thought about your … [Read more...]
Fellowship of Christian Stewards: models to follow
In 2001, the Missouri Baptist Foundation (MBF) Board of Trustees established the Fellowship of Christian Stewards (FCS) as a way to present examples of Christian stewardship. Individuals may nominate those they believe are models of good Christian stewardship by the use of their talents, time and treasures to the glory of God. In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul wrote, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1) Fellows are recognized and honored for their modeling of … [Read more...]
Missouri Baptist Foundation: It’s more blessed to give than receive
Once there were two brothers who inherited their father’s land. The brothers divided the land in half and each one farmed his own section. Over time, the older brother married and had six children, while the younger brother never married. One night, the younger brother lay awake. “My brother has six children to feed and I have none. He should have more grain than I do.” So that night the younger brother gathered a large bundle of wheat and left the wheat in his brother’s silo. That very … [Read more...]
Christian fellowship
In the New Testament the Greek word koinonia is used to encourage “fellowship and communion” among believers. At its core, it is the coming together in love, faith, and encouragement in Jesus Christ. Faith Baptist Church of Climax Springs found a barrier to their koinonia. Their fellowship hall and education space are located in the lower level of the church building. The only access to these areas was a stairway that some church members found challenging to ambulate. An answer was needed … [Read more...]
Generous retirement plans
A pastor gave this advice about retirement: “Don’t simply retire from something; have something to retire to.” It is important to have a plan for life after retirement. Retirement can be a wonderful time to generously give of one’s time, talents and treasures. Here are some things to consider as you head into retirement. 1. Have an estate plan. By taking the time and effort necessary to plan your estate you will be able to provide for your family, transfer your assets to beneficiaries … [Read more...]
Finding peace of mind in estate planning
Peace of mind is a rare possession. The Apostle Paul encouraged the church in Philippi with these words. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is … [Read more...]
The fellowship of Christian stewards
Steve Otte led the youth ministry in my home church, First Baptist, Kahoka. He volunteered his leadership to a group of teenagers to introduce them to faith in Jesus Christ and grow in their relationship with the Lord. He became my example of what it meant to follow Jesus as a teen and then when I entered the ministry. I thank God every time I remember his influence in my life. Have there been people who have made an impact on your life? Are there people you respect who model ways you … [Read more...]