DOMINION cont.

 There are those who think this instruction is license.  This misconception is expounded by Lynn White Jr. in his article, “The Historical Roots of Our Ecological Crisis.”

 Dominion over nature was not intended to be a license.  Instead, when we view this instruction in light of other scripture, it implies a responsibility. Yes, subdue and rule over do indicate that nature will require some type of coercion.  But along with that effort, that coercion and dominion there is individual personal responsibility.

 I think the best word to describe this is stewardship.  God in His wonderful grace and love has put us here as stewards of His creation.  The question we need to ask ourselves is, What type of steward am I?

 Luke 12:42 (NASB)  And the Lord said, "Who then is the faithful and sensible steward, whom his master will put in charge of his servants, to give them their rations at the proper time?

 Our society seems driven to dispose, throw away and consume everything.  We live in a disposable age, not one of stewardship.  Being a good, faithful and sensible steward means responsibility.  Use, enjoy, benefit from, but in a responsible fashion.

 We will be held accountable for our stewardship.  This responsibility runs the full array from high responsibility items such as our children, to lower responsibility issues such as material blessings and/or those whom we have control over.

 Much about our individual character and about our society as a whole can be learned by observing how we treat those subjects in our society who are at risk.  This can be your pet, or it could be your children or the elderly.  Those who are unable to defend themselves, the orphan, the widow, the newborn (or the unborn), and the elderly — we are all individually and collectively responsible for their well being.

 Psalm 82:3 (NKJV) “Defend the poor and fatherless; Do justice to the afflicted and needy.”

 Isaiah 1:23-24 (NASB) ‘Your rulers are rebels, And companions of thieves;

Everyone loves a bribe, And chases after rewards. They do not defend the orphan,

Nor does the widow's plea come before them. 24Therefore the Lord God of hosts,

The Mighty One of Israel declares, "Ah, I will be relieved of My adversaries,

And avenge Myself on My foes.”’

 Dominion is stewardship; we are accountable.  Be a good and faithful steward of all the blessings God has provided.