Of all people, Christians should be the most appreciative of God’s created world because the Creator has revealed Himself in nature. Wherever we look, we see the finger prints of a Creator God.
Christian ecology is a huge topic that generates much discussion regarding appropriate beliefs and activities. However, when we turn to Scripture, we find a solid basis for a balanced philosophy and a plan of action that makes sense.
It all starts in the first chapter of Genesis.
God created everything.
Genesis 1:26 Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’
It all belongs to Him.
Deuteronomy 10:14 Heaven and the heaven of heavens belong to the LORD your God, the earth with all that is in it.
God uses the created world to reveal Himself.
Psalm 19:1-4 The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.
God calls all of His creation to worship.
Psalm 96:11-12 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it. Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy.
God expects humans to be His stewards of nature.
Genesis 1:26 Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’
5 Ways To Make A Difference For God And His Creation
1. Acknowledge that how we relate to and care for creations and the environment should be viewed as a spiritual issue, not simply an economic one.
2. Volunteer to organize family or church activities for celebrating Earth Day and Arbor Day.
3. Contact your elected officials and encourage them to protect the environment from greed and exploitation.
4. Vote your conscience regarding environmental policies.
5. Live like a shepherd, not like a wolf. Protect the earth instead of ravaging it. Reducing, re-using and recycling can be acts of worship!
