GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT PLAYS A IMPORTANT ROLE IN YOUR LIFE!

GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT HAS AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN YOUR LIFE: ROLES ARE IMPORTANT!

“… [Jesus did]…not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28 NIV).  *

 You act-out parts or roles in a play or movie, but  live-out parts or roles in real life. Real life roles are gifts from God. “…These are the gifts (roles) Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. …” (Ephesians 4:11-12 NLT). “…I will give you shepherds after my own heart…” (Jeremiahs 31:5 NIV). “…Here are some of the parts (roles) God has appointed for the church: first are apostles, second are prophets, third are teachers, then those who do miracles, those who have the gift of healing, those who can help others, those who have the gift of leadership, those who speak in unknown languages…” (1 Corinthians 12:28 NLT).  “…There are diversities of gifts (roles), but the same Spirit…” (1 Corinthians 12:4 KJV). “…He (Jesus) ….gave gifts (roles) unto men (and women)…” (Ephesians 4:8 KJV).

The other variety of roles in life include: wife, husband, child, sister, brother, son, daughter, friend, relative, employee, employer, nurse, doctor, etc. and each role comes with its OWN set of responsibilities. Every God-given role also has a CENTRAL focus. “…Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ…” (Ephesians 4:11-12 NLT).

In order to sustain and maintain God-given roles, God’s WORD must also be a CENTRAL focus for directions.. "…This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful TO DO according to all that is written in it; for then you will MAKE YOUR WAY prosperous, and then you will have success…” (Joshua 1:9 NASB). “…They delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night...."  (Psalms 1:2 NLT). “…The steps of a good man are ordered (DIRECTED) by the Lord (the word of god) …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV).

In order to be successful in the real life ROLES God has given us and be a good steward, it is important to know your MAIN responsibilities. “…My life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling (and showing) others the Good News about the wonderful GRACE of God…” (Acts 20:24 NLT). “…As every man hath received the gift (role), even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold GRACE of God…” (1 Peter 4:10 KJV). “…He has saved us and called us (to our roles in life) to a holy life--not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose…” (2 Timothy 1:9 NIV). “…whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men…” (Colossians 3:23 KJV). “…Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might…” (Ecclesiastes 9:10 KJV).

God calls people to live-out various roles and some of them are not always clearly defined, but they provide enough details to give you an ideal of what is expected of you within EACH role. “…O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, TO LOVE MERCY (grace), and to walk humbly with your God…” (Micah 6:8 NLT).

“…He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and TO LOVE MERCY (GRACE), and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8 KJV).

All God-given roles have their role model or template in Jesus Christ. “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

When believers fellowship together; they are expected to behave and carry out their responsibilities toward one another in Christlike manners. “….as I have loved you… love one another….” (John 13:34 ASV).

Believers may vary on their exact callings, but NOT on the fundamental values in which they are to carry-out that calling. “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).

In God-given roles, Christlikeness is ALWAYS a MAIN goal. “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). People around you will witness your role by the DISPLAY of spiritual fruit in your behavior, labor, and interactions with people. “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…every good tree bringeth forth good fruit….[and] a good tree CANNOT bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. WHEREFORE BY THEIR FRUIT YE SHALL KNOW THEM...” (Matthew 7:16-22 KJV).

Relationships and fellowship often connect people together with different views, ideas, and expectations about life and their roles. These differing perspectives usually cause conflicts. “…Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3 KJV).

However, if Christ is the standard for the expected character or behavior in relationships and fellowships, then ALL of God's people are working, in agreement, toward the SAME goal; loving one another. “…If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven…” (Matthew 18:19 KJV). “…A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another…” (John 13:34-35 KJV). “…Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

“…Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). In the relationships and fellowships between God's people, LOVE will ALWAYS be a MAIN FOCUS of EVERY God-given ROLE. Therefore, “…Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear…” (Ephesians 4:29 NASB).

God-given roles, their responsibilities, and what is expected from them guide behavior, challenge endurance or patience, include sacrifice, require servitude, include long periods of routine, depend heavily on the indwelling Holy Spirit, and take a heartfelt LOVING commitment. “…Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).“I CAN DO (My ROLES) all things through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).  ^“…it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “… the God of peace, … that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip[s] you with everything good for doing his will, and …work[s] in [you]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

Jesus was challenged in his ROLE as our LOVING Savior. “… He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them and knelt down and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

Nevertheless, Jesus' role required that he WALKED in agreement with God's will and plan. “…Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3 KJV).

Jesus had a ROLE in this life. Jesus came to earth to “…to  (loving) serve, and to give His life a ransom for many….” (Matthew 20:28 NIV).

Jesus clearly was given the ROLE as our LOVING SAVIOR and his ROLE had multiple responsibilities.  “…The Spirit of the Lord [was]... upon [Jesus], because he hath anointed [him]… to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent [him]… to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

“…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

Jesus' ROLE as LOVING SAVIOR not only gave him multiple responsibilities, but they expanded to a variety of other ROLES such as that of preacher, teacher, healer, deliverer, sight giver, liberator, and do-gooder. “…to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent [him]… to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised…[jesus]…went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil…” (John 4:16-21 & Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

Jesus’ ROLES were God-given and he came here to DO those ROLES for the GLORY of God. When DEEDS are done for the GLORY of GOD they will REVEAL God's presence, CONFIRM his WORD, and establish HIM as God, the ALMIGHTY Holy Spirit. “… “I AM WHO I AM ’ This is My name forever, and this is My memorial-name to all generations…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  

“…I am  the Lord, the God of all flesh…” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). "… I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God…" (Revelation 1:8 NASB). “… I, the LORD … the first, and with the last. I am He...'" (Isaiah 41:4 NASB).  “...The lord is GOOD…there is none good but one, that is, God” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…  I, the Lord, am your healer…” (Exodus 15:26). “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV).  And, “There is none holy as the Lord…” (1 Samuel 2:2 KJV). “…God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “… [God] … will keep in perfect peace all who trust in … [him] … all whose thoughts are fixed on … [him!]” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT). “….The Lord is “my” shepherd ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Your shield and the horn of Your salvation, YOUR stronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB). “…God [is[ with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB). “…[HE IS] WITH… [YOU] and  … [HE] WILL NOT LEAVE [YOU] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).   

 Jesus CAME to DO God's WILL and GIVE him GLORY upon the earth. “…Not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). Jesus SAID,  “…I seek not mine own will…but the will of the Father which hath sent me...” (John 5:30 KJV).

Jesus finished EVERY ROLE he came to fulfill. “…Then Jesus explained: "My nourishment comes … from finishing his work…” (John 4:34 NLT). “Jesus therefore …. said, It is finished…” (John 19:30 KJV). “…I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do…” (John 17:4 KJV).

I am attempting to talk about the importance of God-given roles. God-given ROLES are appointed, empowered, and anointed by God, himself.  “…God anointed Jesus …WITH POWER: who went about doing good and healing all …for GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

In the light of God’s Word, God-given ROLES are GIVEN to men FROM God and are empowered by his indwelling Holy Spirit. “…Now GOD GIVES us many kinds of special abilities (ROLES), but it is the same Holy Spirit who is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service to God …but it is the same GOD WHO “DOES” THE WORK IN AND THROUGH all of us who are his. The Holy Spirit “displays” God’s power THROUGH each of us… It is the same and only Holy Spirit who gives all these gifts  (roles) and powers (indwelling spirit)… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…Here are some of the parts (roles) God has appointed …” (1 Corinthians 12:28 NLT).  “…He (Jesus) ….gave gifts (roles) unto men (and women)…” (Ephesians 4:8 KJV). “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). ^“…it is God who works in you to will and to act  in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV).

God had the first ROLE ever recorded in history as the CREATOR. “…In the beginning God CREATED the heaven and the earth…” (Genesis 1:1 KJV).

In addition, God created HIS own ROLE in his relationship with Adam. HE established his ROLE between himself and mankind when he took on the role of Husbandman/owner/CAREGIVER.  God’s ROLE established his faithful and immutable responsibility toward them. God ROLE in their life automatically caused them to BE BLESSED! “…God blessed them  ….” (Genesis 1:28 KJV).

 Because God had the ROLE of husbandman/owner/CAREGIVER and BLESSOR, he instructed them on how to respond to his ROLE in their LIFE.  “……[god]... said to them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it; and have dominion over….” (Genesis 1:28 KJV).

Why could they followed his instruction? Because “…God [had] … blessed them  ….” (Genesis 1:28 KJV). WHO “BLESSED” them? God, in his ROLE as BLESSOR, CAREGIVER, and husbandman/owner of ALL creation.  Jesus said, “…My FATHER is the HUSBANDMAN (caregiver)…” (John 15:1 KJV). AND “….ye are God’s HUSBANDRY (the cared for)….” (1 Corinthians 3:9 KJV).

God’s ROLE as BLESSOR, CAREGIVE,R and HUSBANDMAN, had the inherent responsibility to abundantly bestow divine favors upon mankind (Adam/Eve). “…God blessed them  ….” (Genesis 1:28 KJV).

Remember “Blessing” in Hebrew, according to Strong’s concordance, is berakah which means gifts/FAVORS, peace, prosperity, or to bestow happiness and well-being upon.

In this context husbandman is not understood in terms of gender or agriculture as many have come to know it, but points to the Hebrew word “Baal” which means “owner.” “…The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein…” (Psalm 24:1 KJV). “…for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof…”(Psalm 50:12 KJV).

Thus, God in his ROLE as husbandman/owner/CAREGIVER, he had the responsibility of taking CARE of them and their EVERY need. God’s name ALONE REVEAL, CONFIRM, and ESTABLISH the many different ROLES and RESPONSIBILITIES he takes on in order to continually and consistently CARE FOR and BLESS his people.

His different NAMES give you a hint of God’s divine nature and his divine, benevolent ROLES he FAITHFULLY and IMMUTABLY lives out for the sake of his people. GOD NAMES:

ADONAI or YAHWEH or JEHOVAH or JEHOVAH ELOHIM or EL ELYON or JEHOVAH ELOHIM which means: “LORD” "LORD God" “Most High" "LORD God." ELOHIM or EL SHADDAI or EL-GIBHOR which means: God “Creator, Mighty and Strong” “God Almighty” “Mighty God.” JEHOVAH –JIREH means: "The Lord Will Provide" JEHOVAH –RAPHA means: "The Lord Who Heals." JEHOVAH –NISSI means: "The Lord Our Banner.” JEHOVAH -M'KADDESH means: "The Lord Who Sanctifies, Makes Holy."  JEHOVAH –SHALOM means: "The Lord Our Peace. JEHOVAH H-TSIDKENU means: "The Lord Our Righteousness.” JEHOVAH –ROHI means: "The Lord Our Shepherd. JEHOVAH –SHAMMAH means: "The Lord Is There. JEHOVAH –SABAOTH means: "The Lord of Hosts." EL ROI means: "God of Seeing" EL-OLAM means: "Everlasting God" 

“… “I AM WHO I AM ’ This is My name forever, and this is My memorial-name to all generations…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I am  the Lord, the God of all flesh…” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). "… I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God…" (Revelation 1:8 NASB). “… I, the LORD … the first, and with the last. I am He...'" (Isaiah 41:4 NASB).  “...The lord is GOOD…there is none good but one, that is, God” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…  I, the Lord, am your healer…” (Exodus 15:26). “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV).  “…God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “… [God] … will keep in perfect peace ...” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT). “….The Lord is “my” shepherd ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Your shield and the horn of Your salvation, YOUR stronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB). “

“…My FATHER is the HUSBANDMAN…” (John 15:1 KJV God, the Holy Spirit as “husbandman/owner/caregiver” points to ALL the roles he plays in the covenant relationship with HIS people.  Further, it refers to the responsibilities, he personally takes, in those ROLES.

For instance as husbandman/owner/CAREGIVER, God, the Holy Spirit, will perform the duties of his roles by shouldering the responsibility of caring for man by dispensing his blessings faithfully and immutably. “…God blessed them  ….” (Genesis 1:28 KJV). 

His blessings include: his love, his care, his provision, and his eternal, immutable stewardship to the covenant relationship with his people. “…Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it; and have dominion over….” (Genesis 1:28 KJV).

In the book of Genesis, God’s role as husbandman /owner / CAREGIVER reveal how he will carry out his responsibilities toward Adam and Eve. “…God blessed them  …and said to them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it; and have dominion over….” (Genesis 1:28 KJV).

His provision included the whole earth (animals, herbs, vegetation, etc.), a luscious home (the Garden of Eden), increase in family (by being fruitful, multiplying, and replenishing), purpose (subduing the earth), and authoritative stewardship (dominion) over his stuff.

There were many other benefits of God’s provisional blessings, such as constant and ongoing love, peace, goodness, kindness, joy, health, prosperity, soul satisfaction, contentment, safety, righteousness, and holiness.

“… “I AM WHO I AM ’ This is My name forever, and this is My memorial-name to all generations…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “...The lord is GOOd [to you]...” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…  I, the Lord, am your healer…” (Exodus 15:26). “… I AM HOLY [toward you]…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV).  “…God is the one who provides[for you] …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “… [God] … will keep in perfect peace all who trust in … ” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT). “….The Lord is “my” shepherd ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Your shield and the horn of Your salvation, YOUR stronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB). 

Provision is the way God, the Holy Spirit lets his people know what they mean to him personally and reveals how deeply they are loved. “….In this, thou shalt know that I AM the Lord...” (READ Exodus 7:14-25). “…Then you will know that I am the Lord your God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT). “…I’ve also done it …so you will know that I am the Lord…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT). “… I … [loved] you with an everlasting love …” (Jeremiah 31:3 NASB).

God has a commandment that says it ALL: “… if any does not provide for his own, and those of his own house, he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel (unbeliever)…” (1 Timothy 5:8 KJV). 

Nothing says “I love you” or “you are meaningful to me” to another as when you lovingly provide for them. “…God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

God is the ultimate provider, emotionally, physically, spiritually, mentally, and financially, in his relationships with mankind. “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

From this perspective, the first covenant was between God and Adam (Eve), though unspoken or reported in scripture was when: “…God blessed them  …and said to them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it; and have dominion over….” (Genesis 1:28 KJV). 

God took on the covenant ROLE as BLESSOR within the relationship and Adam/Even took on the covenant ROLES as BLESSEES

Covenants are God’s idea and not man’s anyway. Covenants are unique to God and are his Holy pattern for establishing relationships between himself and mankind throughout history.  "…But I WILL establish my covenant with you... (Genesis 6:9-22 NIV).“…If you listen to these regulations and faithfully obey them, the Lord your GOD WILL KEEP his covenant of unfailing love …”(Deuteronomy 7:12-15 NLT).  “…For I WILL have respect unto you …and establish my covenant with you.…” (Leviticus 26:9 KJV).

God always initiates and establishes his covenant with man and not the other way around (Genesis 6:18, 9:9). “… I WILL … establish my covenant with you.…” (Leviticus 26:9 KJV).

Remember, a covenant, in simple terms, is an agreement, between two parties, to come together, in respective roles. In addition, they faithfully keep the promises, privileges, compliances, and responsibilities, of those roles, within the covenant relationship with one another. 

God initiated a covenant with man (Adam & Eve)to be the BLESSOR by CARING for them and they were to be the BLESSED by being fruitful, multiplying, replenishing, subduing, and taking dominion. 

God would fulfilled his role and Adam (Eve) would fulfilled their role within the covenant relationship.  God initiates the covenant relationships, like in Genesis, with promises (to bless, provide, care for, etc.). “… I WILL … establish my covenant with you.…” (Leviticus 26:9 KJV).

In Ancient Near East a covenant was usually unbreakable and if broken, it could result in physical death. God ALWAYS takes on the role of husbandman/owner/CAREGIVER. 

You CHOOSE to respond with God-given faith or dependency upon HIM in order to fully benefit from the covenant relationship and its BLESSINGS. WILLFULLY submitting to the covenant relationship and its BLESSINGS says you TRUST God's ROLE as your CAREGIVER with your whole heart.

Jesus submitted to his covenant with God and its BLESSINGS.  “…Not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).We are to do the same. “…In this world we are [to be]… like Jesus …” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…He… [completely] … entrusted himself to [God, the Holy Spirit] ...who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:19-23 NIV). 

Our many roles in life are important to God.  The roles are NOT important, to God, simply because of what YOU DO, but MAINLY because of WHO YOU ARE “IN” those roles. “...God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). God zooms in on the “…hidden man of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). “For from within, out of the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts… wickedness...  All these evil things come from within, and defile a person…” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV). The heart “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it [except God?” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).

In the book of Titus A bishop is used as an example of how we are to steward the responsibilities of our roles in life…from a heart perspective. “…a bishop must be blameless, as the STEWARD of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, and given to filthy lucre…” (Titus 1:7 KJV). “…In this world we are like Jesus …” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

A bishop stewards the responsibilities of his role by being a “…lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate, holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught…” (Titus 1:8-11 KJV). “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

Why must a bishop steward the responsibilities of his role in this way? “… that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers, for there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers specially they of the circumcision whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake…” (Titus 1:8-11 KJV). “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

Apostle Paul told Titus to “…ordain elders in every city… [and] if any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop MUST be blameless as the STEWARD of God….” (Titus 1:5-7 KJV). “…As every man hath received the gift (God-given ROLE), even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God…” (1 Peter 4:10 KJV). “…In this world we are like Jesus …” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

How are bishops empowered to steward the responsibilities of their role in life? ^“…It is God who works in [his people]… to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). God causes them“…to be strengthened (empowered) with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). THEY “…can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth (empowers) [THEM]….” (Philippians 4:13 KJV. “….Apart from [jesus], [they]… can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). ). “…Now may the God of peace, … that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip (empowers) [them]… with everything good for doing his will, and may he work IN [them]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…according to the POWER that worketh IN [them]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “…HE WHICH HATH “BEGUN” A GOOD “WORK” IN [them]… “WILL” “PERFORM” IT “UNTIL” the day of Jesus Christ…” (Philippians 1:6 KJV).

A good steward will stand on the foundation of two important biblical principles. “…..Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind and with all thy strength: this the first commandment.  The second is like, namely this … love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these…” (Mark 12:28-31 KJV).

Righteous stewardship can be an unappreciated and thankless service with very little, if any, reciprocity. God knows and has said to his people:“… [YOU]… FORGOT all about ME,” says the Lord…” (Hosea 2:13 NLT). “… when you had eaten and were satisfied, you became proud and FORGOT ME….” (Hosea 13:6 NLT). “…Does a young woman forget her jewelry, or a bride her wedding dress? Yet for years on end my people have FORGOTten ME…” (Jeremiah 2:32 NLT).

Nevertheless, stewards are NOT to get so caught up or entangled with what others are doing or are NOT doing. “…No [Christian]…soldier (or steward) in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he (or she) may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier…” (2 Peter 2:4 NASB). …We (stewards) are therefore Christ’s ambassadors…” (2 Corinthians 5:11-21 NIV). “…minister ….as good stewards of the manifold grace of God …” (1 Peter 4:10 KJV).

Often, while stewarding  the responsibilities of our roles in life, the wicked appear to prosper in their wickedness. “…Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily …the HEART of the sons of men is fully set in them [unrepentant]… to do evil….” (Ecclesiastes 8:11 KJV). “…EXCEPT YE REPENT, ye shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV). God “….is longsuffering to us-ward, NOT WILLING that any should perish, but that ALL should come to repentance…” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

God is“... RICH IN MERCY…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). “…HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “…Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB).

However, “...the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man…” (Genesis 6:3 KJV). “…They DID NOT like to retain God in their knowledge, GOD GAVE THEM OVER to a reprobate (sinner, wrong doer) mind…” (Romans 1:28 KJV).

The wicked are NOT prospering. DON’T ever envy them. “…Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass….the little that a righteous man hath is BETTER than the RICHES of the MANY wicked...” (Psalm 37:1-2,16 KJV).

The EVIL ONE is a LIAR and  can ONLY masquerades as LIGHT. The EVIL ONE’s workers masquerade as lights too. It won’t last. “…the wicked have drawn out the sword….their sword shall enter into their own hearts…the wicked shall perish….” (Psalm 37:14, 15, & 21 KJV).

FRET NOT about wrong doers or those who don’t steward their responsibilities with integrity. The wicked are ALWAYS headed straight for CALAMITY and will soon be CUT OFF. “...Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord, and [continue to]…do good, so shalt thou dwell in the lands, and verily thou shall be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy ways unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. And he shall bring forth they righteousness as the light, and thy judgement as the noonday. Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him, FRET NOT thyself because of him [or her]…who prospereth in his[or her]… way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; FRET NOT thyself in any wise to do evil. For evildoers shall be CUT OFF; but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace…" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV).

Being a good steward is challenging, especially when the responsibilities include caring for unkind or difficult people. “… [God’s]… kindness is intended to turn [people]… from [their]… sin?” (Romans 2:4 NLT). “…[The]…Lord [is]… a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness…” (Psalm 86:16 NIV). “…He is “SO” RICH in kindness and GRACE …” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT). “….The exceeding RICHES of his GRACE in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus…” (Ephesians 2:7 KJV). “… [The] incomparable RICHES of [God’s]… GRACE …[is]… expressed in his kindness in Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 2:7 NIV).

God’s kindness is EXPRESSED through his good stewards. “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).“…GRACE be unto you, and peace, FROM God our Father, and FROM the Lord Jesus Christ…” (1 Corinthians 1:3 KJV).

Stewardship is the opportunity to participate in God’s worldwide mission to express merciful love and grace through his redemption work in Christ Jesus. “…We were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, …” (Romans 5:10 KJV).“….We have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the RICHES of his grace…” (Ephesians 1:7 KJV). “…God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave  (entrusted to) us the ministry of reconciliation (stewardship). …” (2 Corinthians 5:18 NIV).

As a good steward of God’s manifold GRACE, it is a lot easier to receive his grace, than offer it to others, but DON’T GIVE UP! “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up…” (Galatians 6:9 NIV). “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31 KJV). “…The Lord knoweth the days of the upright and their inheritance shall be for ever. They shall not be ashamed in the evil time; and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied…” (Psalm 37:18-19 KJV).

A good steward remembers God chose them undeservingly and without ANY merit of their own. “…by the GRACE of God I am what I am (a steward)…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

A good steward uses challenging people and situations to. “…grow in the grace [themselves] …” (2 Peter 3:18 NLT). “For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself MORE HIGHLY than he ought to think; but to think soberly (humbly)…”(Romans 12:3 NIV).

A good steward is NOT doing his or her responsibilities for people, but for the glory of God. It is FROM God they will receive unmerited RECIPROCITY. Stewardship is mainly about a person’s personal relationship with God. “…The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord; and he delighteth in his way…I have NOT seem the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread…The Lord forsaketh NOT his saints; they are preserved for ever…The righteous shall inherit the land and dwell therein for ever… Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land…behold the upright; for the end of that man is peace…But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord; he is their strength in a time of trouble. And the Lord shall help deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust him…” (Psalm 37:23-40 KJV).

The bottom LINE is that if you have been GIVEN the blessed responsibilities to be a good steward in the ROLE of wife, -  husband, child, sister, brother, son, daughter, friend, relative, employee, employer, nurse, doctor – you have, at least, ONE clear responsibility. “…Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ…” (Ephesians 4:11-12 NLT). “…In this world we are like Jesus …” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

God is speaking to his people and how they are to steward the responsibilities of THEIR many ROLES in life. . “…If My people which are called by My name shall humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and TURN FROM their wicked ways…” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV).

You are either an unChristian wife or you are a Christian wife, but you can’t be both. If you CLAIM the title of Christian you are SAYING: “I am a follower of Christ.” “…If someone claims, “I know God,” but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person IS A LIAR and is not living in the truth…” (1 John 2:4 NLT).  “…If we “SAY” that we have fellowship with him, and WALK IN DARKNESS (unChristian), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).  “ … the deeds of the flesh are evident…” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).

Living out our God-given ROLES in life, especially the ROLE of being “LIKE JESUS” makes our responsibilities CLEAR and provides us with boundaries.  “…‘Cursed is he who moves his neighbor’s boundary mark.’ And all the people shall say, ‘Amen.’…” (Deuteronomy 27:17 NASB).

It is good to know how to steward our responsibilities in life and how NOT to steward them. It is good to know what our responsibilities are toward others and what their responsibilities are toward us. It is good to know how to treat others and how they should treat us. “….Give to everyone what you owe them: …IF RESPECT, then respect; IF HONOR, then honor…” (Roman 13:7 NIV).  “…‘Cursed is anyone who steals property from a neighbor by moving a boundary marker.’ …” (Deuteronomy 27:17 NLT).

The responsibilities and boundaries in our God-given roles include the following directives: “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…LOVE one another, even as I have loved you…” (John 13:34-35 KJV). “…OWE “NO” man anything, but to love one another…” (Romans 13:8 KJV). “…..Love the Lord thy God … [and[…love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these…” (Mark 12:28-31 KJV).

Christians have, at least, one clear role in life. They steward the responsibilities of “that” role through Christlikeness, which is empowered by the indwelling work of the Holy Spirit and can be witnessed clearly by their fruit.

Christians steward their responsibilities within the boundaries of their God-given roles in life. Godly ROLES will keep you both safe, protective, and in mutual loving fellowship together with others. “…Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up (not tear down) the church (God’s people)…” (Ephesians 4:11-12 NLT). 
GOD IS IMMUTABLY FAITHFUL IN HIS ROLE AS THE LORD, YOUR ALMIGHTY GOD AND CAREGIVER. HE NEVER CHANGES!