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Bible studies

Wise stewards

We have a responsibility to look after the resources that God has given us, including water

Written by Rev Verónica Flachier 2023

A Nepali woman stands on a green rice paddy with hills in the background and washes her hands under a water pipe.

Celebrating God’s gift of water in Nepal. Photo: Rabi Rokka (Ray Of Hope Productions)/Tearfund

A smiling Brazilian woman collects water from a running tap fixed to a red brick wall.

From: Safe drinking water - Footsteps 120

How to value, look after and ensure the safety of drinking water

Read Genesis 1:9-31 

God has provided everything we need for a healthy life, including water. But we do not always look after it. 

Across the world, many water sources are polluted by solid waste, sewage and chemicals from industry, mining and agriculture. In addition, the unjust distribution of water means that many people are left without a regular supply, while others have more than they need.

Justice 

God wants us to have healthy, equitable relationships, based on justice, that promote dignity and peace (Micah 6:8; Philippians 2:3-4). But this is difficult to achieve when we act as though we own God’s creation and can do anything with it. 

Instead, we need to recognise that God wants us to serve him by taking care of all that he has given us (Genesis 2:15), and by looking after each other (James 2:15-17).

 

Discussion questions

  • What does the phrase ‘rule over’ in Genesis 1:26 mean to you? 
  • How can we serve God by looking after his creation, including essential resources such as water?
  • Are there people in your community who do not have reliable access to enough safe water? If so, how can you help to change this situation?

Written by

Written by  Rev Verónica Flachier

Rev Verónica Flachier is an Ecuadorian Lutheran Pastor and member of the Ecumenical Water Network of the World Council of Churches

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