What Stewardship Means to Me...

Align with God's Word and Vision

As we approach Commitment Sunday, I pray that the Holy Spirit touches your heart to continue your steadfast financial commitment to Northbrook. Our heavenly Father is the epitome of commitment. Despite our rebellious attitudes and actions, He never gives up on us. As I look back over my life, God has always been so faithful to me—even when I didn’t know He cared. My three-score plus seven years journey has taken many twists and turns over the years, from me giving up on God to realizing He is the best thing in my life. Because of His faithfulness and my understanding, I walk out biblical teachings with my annual financial commitment to the church. By doing so, every need has always been met—good health, peace of mind, wisdom, and even some miraculous gifts of money--when I was in need caring for my mother.
 
Proverbs 21:20 states that the wise man stores up precious treasure and oil, while the foolish man squanders it.
 
This means the wise person uses resources prudently for both present needs and future security, whereas the foolish person consumes everything they have without foresight.

In addition to savings and investment plans, for now and the future, part of my financial plan includes storing precious treasure and oil by giving generously to the church. It has not failed me yet. As a leader, I must lead by example--it is very important to serve with my time and finances. So, giving to the church is a personal budget line item in my household with automatic debits. As we read, speak, and have faith in “The Word” see what the Lord will do. 
 
“The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it. You will live in joy and peace. The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands!”    
Isaiah 55:11
 
… Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in my house, and thus put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts; see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you an overflowing blessing. 11 I will rebuke the locust[b] for you, so that it will not destroy the produce of your soil; and your vine in the field shall not be barren, says the Lord of hosts. 12 Then all nations will count you happy, for you will be a land of delight, says the Lord of hosts.  
Malachi 3:10-12
 
Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver…
​2 Corinthians 9:7
 
Your annual financial commitment and fulfillment support the mission and ministries of the church. There is no better way to show love for your church family and the community than by using your resources to meet their short-term and long-term goals. So, as we plan for 2026, remember…
 

• The wise man: 

Stores up "precious treasure and oil" in his dwelling. He understands the importance of saving for the future and for times of need.
 

• The foolish man: 

"Devours it up" or "gulps it down.” He consumes all his resources immediately without any thought for tomorrow.
 
Faithfully yours,
 
Phyllis J. Baskin
Office Manager