George Peabody gave away half his fortune. But that may not have been his greatest contribution. His greatest contribution may have been showing other wealthy people what they could do with theirs.
Born poor, Peabody became one of the wealthiest bankers of the nineteenth century. In 1862, while living in London, Peabody established what became the Peabody Trust, initially funding it to provide decent, affordable housing for London's working poor. The organization still exists today.
His example influenced other great philanthropists, including Johns Hopkins and Andrew Carnegie. Peabody didn't simply deploy his wealth. His example inspired others to deploy theirs.
There is a fascinating account of Peabody's influence on Johns Hopkins. During Peabody's 1866–67 return to America, B&O Railroad president John Work Garrett reportedly brought the two men together for dinner. Peabody explained why and how he gave his money away—and the satisfaction he received from seeing the results.
According to the historical account, Hopkins made his philanthropic will the very next day.
The Apostle Paul understood this multiplying power of example:
“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” —1 Corinthians 11:1
Paul wasn't saying, “Look at me.” He was saying, “Watch where I am going—and come with me.”
And this isn't just for wealthy people. Every Christian has influence. We influence family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and others who watch how we live and what we value.
Influence is itself an entrusted resource—and therefore something we must steward.
Hebrews 10:24 tells us: “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”
That is the difference between simply being a steward and becoming a catalyst.
Imagine investing $25,000 into a redemptive business that creates jobs, alleviates poverty and advances the Gospel. That is faithful stewardship. But what if you share the story, invite others into the opportunity, and ten people decide to invest alongside you?
Suddenly, you haven't merely deployed your capital. You have multiplied your influence.
Perhaps Peabody himself best explained the heart behind his stewardship:
“I have prayed my heavenly Father day by day that I might be enabled before I die to show my gratitude for the blessings which He had bestowed upon me by doing some great good to my fellow men.”
Peabody did exactly that. But the good he accomplished extended far beyond what he did with his own fortune. His example inspired others to act—and their actions multiplied his impact far beyond what he could have accomplished alone.
There is a difference between drawing attention to ourselves and drawing others to what God is doing.
So don't just steward your money.
Steward your influence.
Who is watching your example?
And who might join you—or even become a catalyst for others—because you invited them along?
