The concept of stewardship in the Bible extends beyond the management of material resources to encompass the care and use of our physical senses. As creations of God, humans are endowed with senses that allow us to interact with the world around us. These senses—sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell—are gifts from God, and their stewardship is an integral part of living a life that honors Him.

Sight

The sense of sight is frequently addressed in Scripture, emphasizing the importance of what we choose to focus on. In Matthew 6:22-23 , Jesus teaches, "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness." This passage underscores the idea that what we allow into our minds through our eyes can influence our spiritual health. Believers are called to guard their eyes and focus on what is pure and righteous, as echoed in Philippians 4:8 : "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things."

Hearing

The sense of hearing is another area where stewardship is vital. Romans 10:17 states, "Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ." This highlights the importance of listening to God's Word and allowing it to shape our faith and actions. Conversely, believers are cautioned against listening to false teachings and gossip, as these can lead to spiritual harm. Proverbs 4:20-21 advises, "My son, pay attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not lose sight of them; keep them within your heart."

Taste

While the Bible does not extensively discuss the sense of taste, it does use it metaphorically to describe spiritual experiences. Psalm 34:8 invites believers to "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!" This metaphorical use of taste encourages believers to experience and savor the goodness of God. Additionally, stewardship of taste involves moderation and self-control, as seen in Proverbs 25:16 : "If you find honey, eat just what you need, lest you have too much and vomit it up."

Touch

The sense of touch is often associated with compassion and healing in the Bible. Jesus frequently used touch in His healing ministry, demonstrating the power of physical contact in conveying love and care (e.g., Matthew 8:3: "Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. 'I am willing,' He said. 'Be clean!'"). Believers are encouraged to use their sense of touch to serve others and show kindness, reflecting the love of Christ in tangible ways.

Smell

The sense of smell is symbolically significant in Scripture, often associated with offerings and sacrifices. In Ephesians 5:2 , Paul writes, "And walk in love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant sacrificial offering to God." This imagery suggests that our lives, when lived in love and obedience, are like a pleasing aroma to God. Stewardship of smell involves recognizing the symbolic nature of our actions and ensuring they are pleasing to the Lord.

In summary, the stewardship of our senses involves a conscious effort to use these God-given faculties in ways that honor Him and reflect His character. By guarding what we see, hear, taste, touch, and smell, believers can cultivate a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to others.