As Christmas approaches and we start wrapping our presents we should spare a thought for the original festive gift-givers – the Wise Men.
Most of us probably won’t be giving out gold, frankincense or myrrh this year. Neither will we be travelling thousands of miles only using a star in the sky as our satnav to the Christmas party. But there are some key principles behind the Wise Men’s actions in the Christmas story that can certainly guide us as we try to be the best stewards of all the resources that God has given to us.
Good stewardship begins with seeking
The Wise Men were active seekers. They didn’t stumble across Jesus by accident but followed a divine sign—a star in the sky that led them to him. And Matthew 2:2 captures the intention behind their journey: “We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” The Wise Men had a deep desire that tells us a lot about the origins of true stewardship – it starts with a heart seeking to know and honour Christ.
When we align our giving with God’s purposes, we reflect the call of Matthew 6:33: “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Good stewardship is about using resources well, but it’s not just about our resources; it’s about a life that is directed toward Christ, ensuring all we do flows from a heart of worship of him.
Carefully consider what ‘best’ means for you
The gifts of the Wise Men were not random or careless. Each gift—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—was symbolic and valuable. Gold represented royalty, frankincense symbolised divinity, and myrrh foreshadowed Christ’s suffering and death. These gifts were chosen with diligence and intention, reflecting the Magi’s careful reverence for Jesus. It also represented their willingness to offer the best that they could.
Proverbs 3:9 reminds us: “Honour the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.” Good stewardship calls us to offer God the best of what we have—not leftovers, but treasures that reflect his worth in our lives.
Self-sacrifice is at the heart of all good gifts
The journey of the Wise Men was no small feat. They travelled from the East, a long and challenging journey likely fraught with obstacles. And if we believe the Christmas tradition, they likely rode all the way on camels! Yet, their commitment to deliver their gifts far outweighed the cost it brought upon them.
Similarly, everyday stewardship often involves sacrifice. In Luke 21:1-4, Jesus highlights the widow who gave two small coins, commending her not for the size of her gift but for the sacrificial spirit behind it: “She out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” Good stewardship invites us to give sacrificially, trusting God’s provision as we prioritise his kingdom.
Good stewardship is ultimately an act of worship
The Magi’s gifts were more than mere presents—they were acts of worship. Matthew 2:11 tells us: “On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him.” Their posture of worship emphasises that stewardship is ultimately about honouring God with the resources we have been given.
2 Corinthians 9:7 echoes this sentiment: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Generosity is inseparable from worship, a way of declaring that Christ is King over every part of our lives and filling us with deep joy.
Faithful generosity often leaves a legacy
The story of the Wise Men has been told for centuries, inspiring believers with their faith, generosity, and devotion. Their gifts symbolised Jesus’ identity and mission, leaving a legacy that continues to point people to the Saviour.
When we steward our resources faithfully, we create opportunities for others to encounter God. Philippians 4:18-19 illustrates this principle through Paul’s gratitude for the Philippians’ gifts, which he describes as a “fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” Like the Magi, our gifts can ripple outward, creating a legacy of generosity.
What gifts can we bring to the King?
The Wise Men remind us that good stewardship is not about obligation but about joyful worship. They teach us to seek Christ first, to give our best, to trust Him with the cost and to faithfully follow his commands around money and possessions.
This year, as we reflect on the Christmas story, let’s consider how we might bring our own gifts to the King. What might God be calling you to give this season? How can your generosity reflect His love and glory in the world?
May we, like the Wise Men, honour Christ with hearts full of worship, hands open in generosity and heads engaged with thoughts of good stewardship.
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Matt Holderness
Matt joined Stewardship in 2022 with over twenty years of marketing experience from roles at Kendal College and Capernwray Bible School. He has degrees in Business and Marketing, Theology, Management and most recently a Masters in Hermeneutics.
Through raising awareness of Stewardship’s services, Matt helps people explore the impact their generosity can have on the church and Christian charities. He’s passionate about supporting Evangelism and Bible causes, and has a particular interest in charities that are helping people in Poverty and Debt in the UK.
