Dear Trinity Family & Friends,

This week, we continue our Stewardship series with a message entitled “Lives That Give Back.” In 1 Peter 4, we are reminded that every one of us has been entrusted with gifts, meant not for self-promotion, but for the good of others. “Serve each other according to the gift each person has received, as good managers of God’s diverse gifts,” the writer urges. In other words, the stewardship of our lives is not about spotlighting our talents, but about offering our presence in love.

Peter begins with a simple but profound command: “Above all, show sincere love to each other.” This echoes Paul’s words in Galatians 5, where the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—becomes the shape of a Spirit-formed life. These aren’t lofty ideals to admire from a distance. They’re daily practices of discipleship, meant to grow in us through community and consistency.

When we ask, “What shall I give back to the Lord?” the answer is often simpler than we think: live faithfully. Love well. Show up. Speak with grace. Serve with joy. Not because we’re trying to earn anything, but because we’ve already received so much. A life that gives back is a life that’s awake to God’s goodness and willing to be poured out for the sake of others.

We may not all be preachers or leaders or up-front people, but we all have something to offer: hospitality, encouragement, a quiet faithfulness, a generous spirit. These, too, are holy gifts. And when we live them out, we bear fruit that the world desperately needs.

Small Group Discussion Questions:

1. What does it look like to be a good steward of your gifts—not just financially, but relationally and spiritually?
2. Which fruit of the Spirit do you see growing in your life right now? Which one feels difficult to cultivate?
3. How can you practice love that is “sincere” this week—not just in feeling, but in action?
4. What keeps us from offering our lives more fully to God and to others?

This week’s message reminds us that whole-life stewardship is not flashy or complicated – it’s faithful. It’s seen in the quiet ways we live with love, speak with grace, and serve with joy. When we do, we give back to the Lord not just what we have, but who we are.

Blessings,

Pastor Carrie

Want to explore more about “What Can I Give Back?” Visit our 2025 Stewardship page for resources, stories, and ways to participate: trinityhsv.org/stewardship