Who Cares? | Part 3

By Pastor Royston

I wonder if the damage that we have inflicted on this world is reversible. Our materialistic lifestyles cast a thick cloud on the well-being and welfare of others. My indulgences are so important, I am oblivious to my neighbours’ distresses. My focus is on “I” rather than the “we”. Technological advancement seems to repel the idea of being ‘my brother’s keeper’. How can one person enjoy unnecessary luxuries while another lives in misery? The citizens of each country must hold their leaders accountable and demand actions.  

Leadership expert, John Maxwell wrote, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Those seeking answers to the climate dilemma are looking in the wrong place. Usually, when there is a problem with a product, we contact the manufacturer – they have all the intricate and intimate details about the product. God knows best, He cares about His creation. 

If we are guided by the divine order, people first and creation next, we will become better stewards. Handling the environmental crisis/issues calls for strong and courageous leadership. Someone needs to take the lead! The USA, China, and Europe seem to abdicate their moral responsibilities. New world leaders with power, clout and resources are necessary to make the case for change. A strong leader inspires others to take actions.  

Divine intervention and leadership work hand in hand.

Interestingly, the climate issues have excluded the voice and dictate of God. When we build without God’s divine guidance, we have chaos, confusion, division, and waste. Every leader should learn from King Solomon. He realised the importance of divine intervention and sought God’s guidance for his daily choices. In 1 Kings 3:7-9, “Now, LORD my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.  Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number.  So, give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” Any wonder King Solomon is reputed to be the wisest man who ever lived? He asked not for material prosperity but for wisdom, so God gifted him with unsurpassed wisdom.  

In Hebrews 4:13 we learn, “… there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.” God knows everything. He knows how to lead, and he can be trusted. Should Christians get involved in matters of environmental concern? Certainly, we shouldn’t just stand back and do nothing because God is in control. We must be environmentally conscious. Despite God’s ultimate sovereignty, we still have an obligation.  

Where do you place your hope?

God, the creator of this planet has some great plans. He is going to make a new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1-5). Amidst the confusion and disjointed approach by governments and climate enthusiasts we must learn to exercise patience and place our hope in God. Our eternal world will be divinely constructed (never more to be destroyed and abused). The world as we know it will not exist forever. It is our responsibility to care for this planet in the best way we can while we prepare to spend eternity in the perfect environment. He will bring an end to this chaos. Follow his lead. 

Father God, we have been poor stewards. Please forgive us and help us to take our responsibility seriously. Through your son’s name, amen.