- Introducing Ethical Technology: Why Faith Matters in the Digital Age
- What Is Ethical Hacking? A Practical Guide for Beginners
- Faith and Ethics in AI: Ensuring Technology Aligns with Biblical Principles
- How to Avoid Bias in Machine Learning Models
- Stewardship in Technology: Caring for God’s Creation in the Digital World
- The Ethics of Open Source: Contributing to the Community
Introduction
When we think of stewardship, our minds often turn to caring for the earth, our finances, or our time. But what about technology? In today’s interconnected world, the devices we use, the code we write, and the digital spaces we inhabit all form part of God’s creation that we are called to steward. Technology is not separate from creation — it is the fruit of human creativity, a gift from God to be used wisely.
What Does Stewardship in Technology Mean?
Stewardship in technology means using digital tools responsibly, ethically, and in ways that align with God’s purposes. It involves asking:
- Does this technology build up or tear down?
- Does it promote human flourishing or exploitation?
- Does it reflect love for neighbor and creation?
This mindset reshapes how we code, design systems, use data, and even consume technology.
Biblical Foundations for Digital Stewardship
- Genesis 2:15 – Humanity is placed in the garden “to work it and take care of it.” Our responsibility extends beyond nature to the creations of human hands.
- 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Technology, like any tool, should glorify God in its design and use.
- Matthew 25:14–30 – The parable of the talents reminds us that God entrusts us with resources (including digital ones) to manage wisely and fruitfully.
Examples of Good Stewardship in Technology
- Environmental impact: Choosing energy-efficient servers and reducing e-waste.
- Digital well-being: Encouraging healthy screen time and mindful use of social media.
- Security and privacy: Protecting data as an act of respect for human dignity.
- Accessibility: Designing technology that includes rather than excludes people with disabilities.
A Christian Approach to Tech Stewardship
As Christians, we should model a way of engaging with technology that avoids waste, greed, and harm. This doesn’t mean rejecting innovation but using it responsibly. For example:
- Developers can write software that minimizes unnecessary resource consumption.
- Leaders can set policies that prioritize fairness and transparency.
- Individuals can make daily choices to use technology in ways that nurture relationships rather than erode them.
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” – Psalm 24:1
Conclusion
Stewardship is not just about gardens, money, or time — it extends to our digital lives. God calls us to care for every aspect of His creation, including the technological world we build and inhabit. By practicing stewardship in technology, we honor God, protect others, and ensure that our innovations serve creation rather than exploit it.
