Introduction:
The concept of living sustainably is rooted in the biblical mandate for stewardship and care of God's creation. The Bible provides guidance on how humanity is to interact with the earth and its resources, emphasizing responsibility, moderation, and respect for the environment.

Biblical Stewardship:
The principle of stewardship is foundational to understanding sustainable living from a biblical perspective. In Genesis 1:28 , God commands humanity, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth." This dominion is not a license for exploitation but a call to responsible management. Genesis 2:15 further clarifies this role: "The LORD God took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to work it and watch over it." Here, the dual role of working and keeping the garden implies both use and preservation.

Respect for Creation:
The Bible consistently affirms the goodness of creation. In Genesis 1, after each act of creation, God declares it "good." This inherent value calls for respect and care. Psalm 24:1 states, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." Recognizing that the earth belongs to God encourages a mindset of caretaking rather than ownership.

Moderation and Contentment:
Scripture warns against greed and excess, which can lead to the depletion of resources and harm to the environment. Proverbs 30:8-9 advises, "Keep falsehood and deceitful words far from me. Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the bread that is my portion, lest I become full and deny You, saying, 'Who is the LORD?' or lest I become poor and steal, profaning the name of my God." This call for moderation aligns with sustainable living by advocating for a lifestyle that meets needs without excess.

Sabbath and Rest:
The biblical principle of Sabbath rest extends beyond human rest to the land itself. Leviticus 25:4 instructs, "But in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of complete rest for the land—a Sabbath to the LORD. You are not to sow your field or prune your vineyard." This command reflects an understanding of the need for ecological balance and the renewal of natural resources.

Justice and Equity:
Sustainable living also involves justice and equity, ensuring that resources are available for all, including future generations. The Year of Jubilee, described in Leviticus 25, is a profound example of economic and social reset, promoting fairness and preventing the accumulation of wealth and resources by a few at the expense of many.

Conclusion:
The biblical call to live sustainably is a call to honor God through the careful and respectful use of His creation. By embracing principles of stewardship, moderation, rest, and justice, believers are encouraged to live in a way that reflects God's care for the world and its inhabitants.