Christ Enthroned in the Heart

Written by: John Sernaque

Stewardship

CS - Counsels on Stewardship (1940) Chapter 5—Beneficence Where Christ Abides

When Christ Is Enthroned in the Heart

When God entrusts man with riches, it is that he may adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour by using his earthly treasure in advancing the kingdom of God in our world. He is to represent Christ, and therefore is not to live to please and glorify himself, to receive honor because he is rich. {CS 27.4}

When the heart is cleansed from sin, Christ is placed on the throne that self-indulgence and love of earthly treasure once occupied. The image of Christ is seen in the expression of the countenance. The work of sanctification is carried forward in the soul. Self-righteousness is banished. There is seen the putting on of the new man, which after Christ is created in righteousness and true holiness.—The Review and Herald, September 11, 1900. {CS 27.5}

When we follow God’s principles on stewardship, it becomes evident on our outward appearance. Christ creates in us His righteousness and holiness, which is revealed on our countenance. Christ abides in our heart, and we in His. We become new creatures as representatives of Christ, who gave all for our salvation. As co laborers with Christ, it is our duty to use our earthly treasures in advancing the plan of salvation. Earthly treasures will only become rusted and moth eaten if stored up on this earth. It is the heavenly treasure we seek, and if we use our means to honor and glorify God, we can be partakers of the heavenly treasure.

Our kind and gracious Father,

We thank You for giving us the privilege and opportunity of being co laborers with You in the plan of salvation. We thank You for providing our earthly needs, and entrusting us as Your stewards of everything that You provide for us. We pray that we may joyfully continue to further the work of salvation, so that souls may be saved for Your heavenly kingdom. Keep us faithful in our stewardship. Abide in us, that we may abide in You. Let others see You when they see us, and that they may be encouraged to seek first Your Kingdom and Your righteousness. We thank You for hearing and answering our prayers, and it’s in the name of Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.