Text: Genesis 2:20-25
This passage gives us another look at what we first saw in Gen.1:24, the creation of animals. Here, we have the added information that God’s new gardenkeeper, Adam, will determine the names of objects and creation. The giving of names shows authority. Just as parents or other family members give names to babies, so the man named the animals because part of his work was to rule over them (1:26). It’s interesting to note, perhaps troubling to some readers, that man named even Eve, implying that she was to be under his authority.
Almost everyone is in a position of authority at some point of their lives. This does not give them the right to be harsh or do whatever they want. Rulership involves service. God is ruler over all things, and yet He is constantly serving His creatures, keeping them alive and providing for their needs. The great example is Jesus Christ, who did not come to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark10:45). Whenever we lead, we must serve others.
Leading like Christ reflects something of the image of God. And when we lead, as God leads, our leadership work is worship.
Meditate on verse 20. What are you learning from this verse?
Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, thank You for the opportunity You gave man to name all animals as a sign that he is higher than the rest of the creation. Amen.