CTA To Chrisitan Environmentalist

Hi friend! In today’s blog, I want to share how I believe Christians could really make a difference in the environment. I want to share my thoughts on why I think this is important for Christians to be a part of as well as ways that we can help, especially young Christians.

So why should Christians care about the environment? I actually enjoy answering this question. The answer to this question lies at the beginning of the Bible, the book of Genesis. We see that God created everything and called it good (Genesis 1:31). This brings a smile to my face. That sunrise that gives us hope, the sounds of a waking forest, the oceans, and its grandness, do you see it as well? It’s pretty evident that we live in a remarkable place that was made just for you and me. In that same book, God has a job for us to care for the garden of Eden. “The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” Genesis 2:15. Here we see that God calls us to be stewards of this Earth as this is where he has placed us to be. He wants us to reap the good fruits of what we harvest. Genesis is a great book showing God’s character, He leads us by example in how we should live also reminding us of rest hence the sabbath. I love also that the Bible shares how to even out lands must rest to reap its full fruits (Leviticus 25:4-7). This shows us that God cares about all of it the whole picture. The last book of the Bible even warns us that those who mistreat earth will be dealt with (Revelations 11:18). It is pretty clear that God wants us to care for what He has so graciously given us. Ultimately as a believer, we glorify by all that we do, that is the whole point.

So now that we know why we should care for and steward our environment we need to tackle the question, how? This is actually easier than we think. I always say that when you are aware of your actions that already is a win! Next, I would say learn about what climate or environmental issues are occurring. There are many and it can be overwhelming but pick one learn more about it and then talk to others about it. I recommend making small changes in your lifestyle. If you want to talk about plastics learn how plastics are an issue read some books, listen to podcasts about it, and share what you are learning with those close to you. Talk about how you are reducing your plastic consumption with others so they can see that it is possible. A big way is supporting organizations that are working to create policy changes that make an important impact to better our environment. I enjoy supporting Only.One. Perhaps you are a Christian and would like resources about how this ties into your faith, I’ve got you covered!

Being a Christian and a person of faith you may feel alone, I want to assure you that you are not! I recommend reading the following books that have helped me! Stewards of Eden by Sandra L. Richter, Saving Us by Katharine Hayhoe, and Green Revolution by Ben Lowe. These we great books for me to know that there are others just like me out there! If you are a young evangelical I recommend checking out Young Evangelicals for Climate Action. Also, check your local church to see if they have environmental focus groups. I believe that if we all work together we can unite to create lasting change. We’ve already seen this done through Christian groups when natural disasters happen (many exacerbated because of climate change). When we acknowledge this is the first job God called us to we can realize it is one that is ongoing. Participating in environmental movements is a great way for us to gather and do this. Whether it is a local community meeting, a rally, or a festival coming together will build community and act to create change.

I hope this blog was encouraging to you! If it was please share this with someone you know!