They must also be used for the benefit of others, and ultimately for the glory of God the giver. The steward needs an open hand to receive from God and then an active hand to give to God and to others. I wonder sometimes what difference it would make in our spending if Jesus had to appear in bodily form to co-sign all our checks before they would be negotiable. Stewardship is a discipline. It is a discipline of faith and love.
Christian stewardship is work.
It is a way of life and the way to eternal life. Christian stewardship when properly practiced brings joy to the giver and to the receiver. All of us will be held to account for how we have spent our time, talents and treasure. It is not he who dies with the most toys that wins, but he who brings the most joy to others. Our biggest obstacle is seeing past ourselves, getting past our own selfishness and being able to see through to God, to His kingdom, to those created in His Image, especially those who are in need.