What Bible Says About Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

If you are a Christian traveler, you might be wondering what the Bible says about tourism. Is it okay to explore the world and experience new cultures, or is it frowned upon? Let’s take a closer look at what the Bible has to say about tourism.

Traveling in the Bible

The concept of traveling is not new to the Bible. In fact, many of the most significant events in the Bible take place as people journey from one place to another. For example, Abraham traveled from his homeland to Canaan, and Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt and into the Promised Land.

The Importance of Hospitality

One theme that runs throughout the Bible is hospitality. In many cultures, welcoming strangers and providing for their needs is a sacred duty. The Bible encourages us to show kindness and hospitality to those we encounter on our travels.

In fact, Hebrews 13:2 says, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” This verse reminds us that when we welcome others into our homes or communities, we are opening ourselves up to unexpected blessings.

Learning from Other Cultures

Another reason why tourism can be beneficial for Christians is that it allows us to learn from other cultures. When we travel to different parts of the world, we can gain a better understanding of how people live and worship in other parts of God’s creation.

Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” When we interact with people from different backgrounds and cultures, we can learn from their experiences and perspectives. This can help us grow in our faith and deepen our relationship with God.

Stewardship of Resources

While tourism can be a valuable experience for Christians, it’s important to remember that we are called to be good stewards of the resources God has given us. This means being mindful of the impact our travels have on the environment and local communities.

In Colossians 1:16, we are reminded that “all things were created by him and for him.” As Christians, we have a responsibility to care for God’s creation and protect it for future generations.

Conclusion

So what does the Bible say about tourism? While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, it’s clear that traveling can be a valuable experience for Christians. By showing hospitality to strangers, learning from other cultures, and being mindful of our impact on the environment, we can honor God through our travels.