My wife and I bought our first home when we moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan. During my years in the pastorate, a parsonage had always been provided. I remember the feeling when I signed a 30-year mortgage. It seemed that I was committing myself to a lifetime of debt.

Another thought has gripped me recently—I'll never own my home, even when the mortgage is paid off. You see, God is the real title holder. Everything belongs to Him.

These musings raise a vital issue in our highly materialistic culture. We as Christians must recognize that God is the rightful owner of our possessions, or they will be a cause of frustration. Our attitude will be reflected in what happens to them. A dent in the fender of our new car, for instance, can bend us out of shape. A coffee spill on the furniture can stain our attitude. A theft can easily rob us of peace.

We need to give up ownership rights and take our stewardship responsibilities seriously. This does not mean adopting a casual, wasteful attitude about material things. In our hearts we must make a transfer of our goods to God, and then keep reminding ourselves who really owns them (1 Chronicles 29:11). This will help us use things wisely, hold them lightly, and enjoy them fully.  — Dennis J. De Haan