It has been said that “It’s not your aptitude that determines your altitude, but it is your attitude.” Attitude can be described as a mindset, a point of view, or frame of mind that a person has toward someone or something. An attitude can also be seen in one’s behavior. According to a 2013 edition of the Stewardship Leaders Guide for the Local Church, “Attitude is central to stewardship, and the right attitude exists when we recognize God as Creator and Owner of all” (p. 10). As God’s stewards, blessed with the bounties of His hand, we need to foster a positive and grateful attitude towards supporting the work of Christ and the plan of salvation.
The story of the wise men that came to worship Christ (Matthew 2:1-11) is an example of what it means for faithful stewards to have a wonderful attitude. When they studied the prophecies and discovered where the Messiah was going to be born, they joyfully brought their gifts to Jesus. More importantly, they displayed a positive and optimistic attitude. They were not forced to give. They gave gladly out of a willing heart.
Today, as we return our tithes and freewill offering to the coffers of the local church budget, let us do so with an attitude of gratitude.