Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Stewardship with integrity

Bible Reading:    Acts 5:1–11

Key verse:  “Peter said, ‘Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit…? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.’” (Acts 5:3–4)


DEVOTION

The story of Ananias and Sapphira is eye opening. They sold a piece of property, but instead of giving the full amount as they had claimed, they secretly kept part of the money back for themselves. Their sin was not that they withheld money.  Peter made it clear that the property and money were theirs to do with as they pleased. Their sin was deception. They wanted the appearance of generosity without the reality of sacrifice.
This story reminds us that stewardship is more than giving; it is about honesty and integrity. God calls us to be faithful with everything He entrusts to us our time, gifts, resources, and opportunities. Living with integrity means being transparent before God and others, acknowledging that all we have belongs to Him and should be used to honor Him.
The early church thrived on unity, generosity, and honesty, and the deception of Ananias and Sapphira threatened that foundation. God’s response shows how seriously He values integrity in our stewardship. 
As we think about this passage, we should look at our own hearts. Do our actions match what we truly feel inside? Are we giving, serving, and living honestly before God? When we live with integrity in how we use what God has given us, we bless others and show the character of Christ, who gave everything for us. 
 

PRAYER

Lord, help me to live honestly before You. Teach me to be faithful with what You have given me and to serve You with a true heart. May my life reflect the example of Jesus, who gave everything for me. Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

God calls me to be a faithful and honest steward of what He has given.
 

Ginsey George
St. Johns MTC, New York

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