The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden
to work it and take care of it.
Genesis 2:15
One of mankind’s first assignments was to care for the creation. Stewardship of the earth is not a political issue, but a Biblical call. Christians should lead the charge to actively and purposefully demonstrate conservation of our earth’s resources—being careful to proclaim that we worship the Creator and not the creation.
The call to recycle is heard by every generation. Modern-day school children recognize the green triangle and the words Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. The World War II generation can recite the slogan of their era: “Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without.” Travelers are challenged to reuse their towels with this message in hotel rooms: “Think Globally, Act Locally.”
As 21st Century Christians, we should not resist, but embrace, the challenge to live a green lifestyle. Consider these simple actions as ways to worship God and fulfill His assignment to take care of the earth:
- Buy a re-usable water bottle. Keep it filled and ready to grab and go.
- Recycle cans, plastic, metal, and paper.
- Consider wearing clothing a second time before laundering to conserve water.
- Donate items in good condition to a local Salvation Army rather than throwing into the trash.
- As you go, pick up trash from sidewalks, parks, and streets.
- Plant a tree
Our job from the very beginning was to serve as caretaker of the earth. Our creation is God’s gift to us. We honor Him and worship Him when we serve as good stewards of what He has entrusted to us.
