Stewardships

Doctrine & Covenants 104

This section starts off with another promise of "multiplicity of blessings" if only we'll be faithful and obedient. I love that phrase!

When I was in seminary, one of our scripture masteries was found in verses 15-17. It brings me great peace to know that "the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare." It's probably not going to be effective in a debate with those who are adamant about the need for population control, yet it is effective in sharing with our children so they don't have to be concerned as they are bombarded with such teachings in school. (Someone's taking Environmental Science right now and the text book is definitely biased.) Heavenly Father knows what he's doing.

Stewardship and accountability are important in the Lord's plan. We have a responsibility to take care of ourselves and our families, yet we also need to remember that everything we have belongs to God ("if the properties are mine, then ye are stewards" vs. 56). We have been admonished to be wise and improve the talents we have been given, and then to share them with others. I liked the idea that we don't hold onto things - "cast into the treasury as fast as you receive moneys" (vs. 68). That's a scripture we can use to motivate us to pay our tithing frequently, and not save it up for the end of the year!

Remember how we can find answers to everything in the scriptures? Here's one for financial management: "Behold, it is my will that you shall pay all your debts" (vs. 78). Yet we're not left without guidance in this matter, we will be able to pay our debts as we exercise diligence, humility, prayer, and faith (see verses 79-80).