In chapter 10 of Rees Howells Intercessor, we see how Rees learned to be a steward of God's money and not an owner.
He was ready for a special meeting one night that his friend was leading. His friend wasn't able to go at the last minute and Rees suddenly realized that he hadn't "carried the burden" and prayed for the meeting as usual, but had kinda left that in his friend's hands. On the way there he prayed, asking the Lord for forgiveness for not carrying that burden, promising it would never happen again and, "like Jephthah," promised that if God showed up and blessed the meeting that he would give the Lord anything He asked.
After the meeting went fantastic, he returned to the spot of his vow and told the Lord he was ready to learn what He would have of him. God told him, "I want you to be a steward, and not an owner. Will you give up all claim on your money to Me?"
He had already thought that he'd spent all his money on the Lord's work, and he had. It was just that he decided to give. This decision would relinquish even the decision on when and how much to give. God called him to only spend money on essentials, and that He'd direct his money. It was tested some four months later when a friend sent him a Christmas card and he wanted to return the favor and send him a New Year's postcard, which cost a penny. He felt the Lord's conviction and wrote a letter instead, explaining the situation. Later his team was praying for 2 pounds. That day a letter from his friend came, who was much blessed by the lesson in the letter, which he had shared with many. He sent 2 pounds and asked to be notified if there was ever another need, to which he'd be delighted to give towards. Rees refused to ever do this, only asking through the throne. He said his friend was often reached this way...
Wow. Can you imagine having a relationship -- not only with the Father, where you'd ask Him for all your needs -- but also a friend who heard God and helped out as a result of your prayers (instead of direct communication)?!? Wow. That is an adventurous life, indeed.
Posted by Doug Van Pelt at May 9, 2006 11:23 AM