Definition and Scope:
Stewardship in the biblical context refers to the responsible management and care of resources, talents, and possessions that God has entrusted to individuals. It encompasses a wide range of areas including financial management, environmental care, time management, and the use of spiritual gifts. Resource management is a subset of stewardship, focusing specifically on the efficient and effective use of resources.

Biblical Foundation:
The concept of stewardship is deeply rooted in Scripture, beginning with the creation narrative. In Genesis 1:28 , God commands humanity to "fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that moves on the ground." This mandate establishes humans as stewards of God's creation, tasked with its care and management.

Parables and Teachings of Jesus:
Jesus frequently used parables to illustrate principles of stewardship. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) is a quintessential example, where servants are entrusted with their master's wealth and are expected to manage it wisely. The servant who multiplied his talents is commended, while the one who buried his talent is rebuked, highlighting the expectation of active and fruitful stewardship.

In Luke 16:10-12 , Jesus teaches, "Whoever is faithful with very little is also faithful with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much." This underscores the importance of integrity and faithfulness in managing both small and large resources.

Financial Stewardship:
The Bible provides guidance on financial stewardship, emphasizing generosity, honesty, and prudence. Proverbs 3:9 instructs, "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest." This principle of giving back to God is foundational to Christian financial stewardship.

The Apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 , encourages cheerful and generous giving: "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver." This reflects the attitude believers are to have towards their financial resources.

Environmental Stewardship:
Caring for the environment is an integral part of biblical stewardship. Psalm 24:1 declares, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." This verse reminds believers that the earth belongs to God, and humans are caretakers of His creation.

The principle of Sabbath rest for the land, as outlined in Leviticus 25:4 , "But in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of solemn rest for the land, a Sabbath to the LORD," illustrates God's concern for sustainable practices and the well-being of the environment.

Time Management:
Time is another resource that requires wise stewardship. Ephesians 5:15-16 advises, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." This passage encourages believers to use their time purposefully and wisely, aligning their activities with God's will.

Spiritual Gifts and Talents:
Believers are also stewards of spiritual gifts and talents. 1 Peter 4:10 states, "As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another." This emphasizes the responsibility to use one's abilities for the edification of the church and the glory of God.

Accountability and Reward:
The Bible teaches that stewards are accountable to God for their management of His resources. Romans 14:12 reminds us, "So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God." This accountability is coupled with the promise of reward for faithful stewardship, as seen in Colossians 3:23-24 : "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward."

In summary, stewardship and resource management are central themes in the Bible, calling believers to faithfully manage all that God has entrusted to them, with the understanding that they are ultimately accountable to Him.