“Blessed is the man who endures temptation…when…approved, he will receive the crown of life…” – James 1:12 (NKJV)
Today, let’s consider stewardship in times of adversity. Question: Is it easy to maintain a spirit of stewardship in such times?
When we face trials, suffering, and uncertainty, it is natural to withdraw, protect what we have, and focus on survival. Yet the Word of God constantly encourages us that true stewardship is not dependent on our circumstances but rather is rooted in faithfulness to God, regardless of the situation (Hebrews 10:36).
In times of prosperity, this often comes easily. But it is in times of adversity that stewardship is tested and refined. Adversity reveals where our trust truly lies. When the ground beneath us shakes, will we cling to our own strength, or will we trust in the Lord who holds all things? Joseph, who faced betrayal, slavery, and false accusations, never ceased being a faithful steward. Even in prison, he managed resources, helped others, and trusted God’s providence (Genesis 39:20-23). Joseph’s adversity became a stage for God’s greater plan.
Like Joseph, our trials may feel overwhelming. However, these seasons are opportunities to deepen our reliance on God and demonstrate stewardship even as we go through. Instead of viewing adversity as a barrier, we can see it as a test of our faithfulness – an invitation to continue serving, giving, and trusting.
Another profound act of stewardship during adversity is how we handle our pain. We all need to get to that place where, rather than letting suffering harden our hearts, we can offer it back to God and allow Him to use it to mould us and bless others. Pain, when surrendered to God, becomes a tool for empathy, compassion, and ministry. Others will see how God brought us through and be encouraged if they are experiencing similar circumstances. Apostle Paul faced countless trials yet continued to proclaim the Gospel and minister to the early church (2 Corinthians 4:8-9). His suffering became the backdrop for letters that continue to encourage us all today.
We may think we have little to offer in times of adversity, but Jesus reminds us that faithfulness in small things is just as important as managing great wealth (Luke 16:10). Perhaps all we may be able to offer is a prayer, a word of encouragement, or a small act of kindness. Though these may seem insignificant, they are precious in God’s sight. As we entrust our limited resources – whether emotional, physical, or spiritual – into God’s hands, He multiplies them. The widow’s mite, given in faith, was counted as greater than the large sums of the rich (Mark 12:41-44). It’s not about how much we have but about how faithfully we steward what we’ve been given, especially in hardship.
Stewardship in adversity is a high calling. It requires us to trust God when nothing seems certain, to give when we feel empty, and to serve when we are hurting. But it is in these moments that our faith shines brightest. Like Job, we can say, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15 – NKJV). Our trials do not excuse us from stewardship; they refine and strengthen our calling to be faithful stewards of all God has entrusted to us, even our suffering.
Read: Proverbs 24:10; James 1:2-4
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 119:57-64; 1 Timothy 3; Jeremiah 38; Jeremiah 39; Jeremiah 40:1-6
