By: C.J. Lloyd, October 18, 2024

Stewardship of Digital Resources: Honoring God in the Digital Age

In the digital age, where information is stored in hard drives and communication happens at the click of a button, the concept of stewardship extends beyond physical resources. Just as God entrusts us with time, talents, and money, He also entrusts us with digital resources—our data, privacy, online presence, and the technology that shapes our world. Being faithful stewards in this space is crucial for living out our calling to honor God in all areas of life.

The Biblical Foundation for Digital Stewardship

While the Bible doesn’t specifically address the digital world, its principles of stewardship are timeless. Genesis 2:15 says that God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden “to work it and keep it.” This call to tend and care for creation applies to the Earth and the digital environments we interact with today. Just as Adam was responsible for managing the resources of the garden, we are called to manage the digital resources entrusted to us responsibly.

Proverbs 21:5 reminds us that “the plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” This verse can easily be applied to how we handle our online presence and technology use. By being intentional and thoughtful with our digital interactions, we honor God and avoid the pitfalls of careless or irresponsible online behavior.

Protecting Privacy and Data: Modern Stewardship

Our personal information and data are valuable assets today, often treated as currency in the digital marketplace. As stewards of these resources, we must be mindful of how we handle them. Proverbs 4:23 advises, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” In the digital realm, guarding our data and privacy is akin to guarding our hearts.

One way to honor God with our data is by practicing good digital protocol—using strong passwords, being cautious with personal information, and being mindful of the permissions we grant apps and websites. We should also respect the data of others, treating it with care and not exploiting it for personal gain, much like the command to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:31).

Responsible Use of Technology

Technology is a tool that can be used for good, but it can also become a distraction or even an idol. Colossians 3:17 reminds us, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” This verse challenges us to use technology in ways that glorify God—whether through work, communication, or leisure.

Being a good steward of digital resources means using technology wisely and purposefully. Are we using our digital tools to build relationships, share the Gospel, and bring hope to others? Or are we allowing technology to consume our time and attention, pulling us away from more meaningful pursuits? Ephesians 5:15-16 tells us to “be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” In a world filled with digital distractions, being intentional with our time online is a form of stewardship.

Ethical Behavior in the Online Space

The digital world provides opportunities for anonymity, which can lead some to behave in ways they wouldn’t in person. As Christians, we are called to live with integrity both online and offline. Ephesians 4:29 instructs us, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what helps build others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” This principle applies to our online interactions as well. Whether commenting on social media posts, sending an anonymous email, or engaging in online forums, we should ensure our words reflect Christ’s love and truth.

The digital realm is vast and constantly evolving, but God’s call for stewardship remains unchanged. Just as we are called to care for our finances, time, and relationships, we are also called to steward our digital resources responsibly. We honor God and fulfill our role as faithful stewards in the digital age by protecting our data, using technology purposefully, and interacting online with integrity.

Let us embrace this responsibility, remembering that everything we do—whether in the physical world or the digital one—can be an act of faithfulness to our Creator.