40+ Bible Verses About Taking Care of Animals

“Bible verses about taking care of animals and how they guide us.”

Taking care of animals is a significant aspect of our faith and responsibility. The Bible offers numerous verses that highlight how we should treat the creatures of the earth. As stewards of God’s creation, we are called to show compassion, love, and responsibility towards the animals around us.

These scriptures not only provide guidance on how to care for animals but also reveal the deep connection between humans and all living creatures. Here are 40 Bible verses that shed light on our responsibility to take care of animals.

1. Genesis 1:26-28 – God’s Dominion Over Animals

In the creation story, God grants humanity dominion over the earth and its creatures. This dominion is not one of exploitation but of stewardship and care.
Scripture:
“Then God said, ‘Let us make humanity in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’” – Genesis 1:26-28
Prayer:
Lord, help us understand the responsibility that comes with dominion over your creation. Teach us to care for the animals and treat them with respect and love.

2. Proverbs 12:10 – A Righteous Person Cares for Their Animals

This verse highlights the character of a righteous person who shows kindness to their animals, demonstrating a moral duty to care for them.
Scripture:
“The righteous care for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.” – Proverbs 12:10
Prayer:
God, let our hearts be filled with compassion for all living beings, and guide us in showing kindness and care to animals.

3. Proverbs 27:23-27 – Knowledge and Responsibility for Animals

This passage emphasizes the importance of knowing the needs of the animals in your care and providing for them adequately, just as we manage our resources.
Scripture:
“Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations.” – Proverbs 27:23-27
Prayer:
Lord, help us be diligent stewards of the animals you’ve entrusted to us. May we always provide for their needs with wisdom and care.

4. Psalms 104:14 – God Provides for All Creatures

God’s provision extends not only to humans but to every living creature. This verse acknowledges that God provides for the animals in His creation.
Scripture:
“He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth.” – Psalms 104:14
Prayer:
Thank you, God, for your abundant provision. Help us recognize the needs of all creatures and do our part to care for them.

5. Matthew 6:26 – Trusting God’s Care for All Creatures

In this verse, Jesus reminds us that if God cares for the birds of the air, we can trust that He will provide for all living creatures, including animals.
Scripture:
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” – Matthew 6:26
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we trust in your care for all creatures. Help us be mindful of the world around us and be good stewards of your creation.

6. Luke 12:6-7 – God’s Attention to the Smallest of Creatures

Even the smallest animals are not overlooked by God. This passage emphasizes that God values all creatures, big and small.
Scripture:
“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.” – Luke 12:6-7
Prayer:
Lord, we thank you for your care for all creatures. Help us to treat every living being with the same love and attention that you show.

7. Exodus 23:5 – Compassion for the Weak

This verse teaches us to show kindness to even the weakest and most vulnerable animals, demonstrating the importance of compassion in action.
Scripture:
“If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen down under its load, do not leave it there; be sure you help them with it.” – Exodus 23:5
Prayer:
God, help us to show mercy and kindness to those who are suffering, whether human or animal, and teach us to act with love and compassion.

8. Psalm 145:9 – God’s Compassion for All Living Things

This verse speaks to God’s nature as compassionate and loving, showing that His mercy extends to all creatures, great and small.
Scripture:
“The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.” – Psalm 145:9
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for your boundless compassion. May we reflect this love in how we treat all animals and living things.

9. Job 12:7-10 – The Wisdom of God in Nature

God’s wisdom can be seen in the way He cares for all creatures, and we are called to respect the balance He has created.
Scripture:
“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you.” – Job 12:7-10
Prayer:
Father, thank you for the beauty and wisdom of your creation. Help us learn from the creatures you’ve made and be better stewards of your earth.

10. Genesis 9:9-10 – God’s Covenant with Every Living Creature

After the flood, God made a covenant with Noah and all living creatures, showing His desire to protect all of creation.
Scripture:
“I now establish my covenant with you and with your descendants after you and with every living creature that was with you… every living creature on earth.” – Genesis 9:9-10
Prayer:
Lord, we are grateful for your covenant with all living beings. Teach us to honor your promises and protect your creation with reverence.

11. Isaiah 11:6-9 – The Peaceable Kingdom

This prophecy speaks of a future time when all creatures will live in harmony, showing that God desires peace and unity among His creation.
Scripture:
“The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them.” – Isaiah 11:6-9
Prayer:
God, we long for the peace that you promise in your kingdom. Help us work towards peace and harmony in our care for all creatures.

12. Matthew 10:29-31 – God’s Care for Sparrows

Jesus reminds us that even the smallest creatures, like sparrows, are under God’s protection and care.
Scripture:
“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” – Matthew 10:29-31
Prayer:
Father, thank you for your loving care over every creature. Help us to be mindful of your creation and care for all living things with the same love and attention.

13. Revelation 5:13 – All Creation Worships God

This verse speaks of how all of creation, including animals, will one day praise God. It emphasizes the unity of all living things in worship.
Scripture:
“Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!'” – Revelation 5:13
Prayer:
Lord, we join with all creation in praising you. May we reflect your glory in how we care for every part of your creation.

14. 1 Timothy 4:4-5 – Everything Created by God is Good

This passage reminds us that everything God created is good, and we should treat all of His creation, including animals, with respect and honor.
Scripture:
“For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.” – 1 Timothy 4:4-5
Prayer:
God, thank you for creating everything good. Help us honor and cherish all of your creation, understanding that it is sacred in your eyes.

15. Luke 12:24 – The Birds of the Air

In this verse, Jesus teaches that God takes care of the birds, reminding us of His deep concern for all living creatures.
Scripture:
“Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!” – Luke 12:24
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for your provision for the birds and for us. Help us to trust in your care and provide for your creation.

16. 1 Peter 3:15-16 – Treating Animals with Honor

As believers, we are called to act with kindness and respect toward all of God’s creation, including animals.
Scripture:
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” – 1 Peter 3:15-16
Prayer:
God, help us to always approach your creation with gentleness and respect, treating all animals with the care they deserve.

17. Isaiah 40:11 – God’s Gentle Care for His Sheep

God’s tender care for His people is often illustrated through the imagery of a shepherd caring for sheep. This shows His deep concern for the well-being of His creation.
Scripture:
“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” – Isaiah 40:11
Prayer:
Father, thank you for your gentle care for us and all creatures. Help us to follow your example in how we care for animals and one another.

18. Matthew 7:7-11 – God’s Goodness in Providing for His Children

This passage teaches that God, in His goodness, provides for all His children, including animals. It is a reminder of His generosity and care for all living things.
Scripture:
“Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” – Matthew 7:7-11
Prayer:
Thank you, Lord, for your generosity in providing for us and your creation. Teach us to provide for the animals and to care for them as you care for us.

19. Proverbs 3:9-10 – Honor God with Our Resources

By honoring God with our resources, we are also honoring His creation, including the animals that depend on us for care.
Scripture:
“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.” – Proverbs 3:9-10
Prayer:
Lord, help us honor you with all that we have, including the care we provide for the animals. May our resources be used to care for your creation.

20. Jeremiah 8:7 – The Stubbornness of Animals

This passage illustrates how even animals can follow their instincts, but humans often fail to heed God’s guidance. It calls us to be more responsive to God’s will.
Scripture:
“Even the stork in the sky knows her appointed seasons, and the dove, the swallow and the crane observe the time of their migration. But my people do not know the requirements of the Lord.” – Jeremiah 8:7
Prayer:
Lord, help us to learn from your creatures and obey your guidance with the same awareness. Let us follow your will with faithfulness.

21. Proverbs 6:6-8 – Learning from Ants

Animals like ants teach us valuable lessons about hard work and preparation. By caring for animals, we are also reminded to be diligent and wise stewards of what God has given us.
Scripture:
“Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.” – Proverbs 6:6-8
Prayer:
God, help us learn from the diligence of the animals around us and apply those lessons to our care for them. May we always work hard to provide for your creation.

22. Genesis 9:2-3 – The Relationship Between Humans and Animals

In this passage, God gives humans dominion over animals, but this dominion comes with a responsibility to treat animals with care and respect. It sets a foundation for stewardship over God’s creation.
Scripture:
“The fear and dread of you will fall on all the beasts of the earth, and on all the birds in the sky, on every creature that moves along the ground, and on all the fish in the sea; they are given into your hands. Everything that lives and moves will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.” – Genesis 9:2-3
Prayer:
Father, thank you for entrusting us with the care of the animals. May we use this responsibility wisely, honoring you in all we do.

23. Psalm 104:27-30 – God’s Provision for All Creatures

This passage beautifully describes how God provides for every living creature on earth, highlighting His care for all creation, including animals. It serves as a reminder that God’s provision extends to every part of His creation.
Scripture:
“These all look to you to give them their food at the proper time. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are satisfied with good things. When you hide your face, they are terrified; when you take away their breath, they die and return to the dust. When you send your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the ground.” – Psalm 104:27-30
Prayer:
Thank you, God, for providing for all creatures. Help us to recognize your hand in the care and sustenance of animals, and teach us to reflect that care in our actions toward them.

24. Matthew 6:26 – God’s Care for the Birds

This scripture reminds us that God takes care of the birds of the air, showing His concern for all His creatures, no matter how small. It teaches us not to worry but to trust in God’s provision for all life.
Scripture:
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” – Matthew 6:26
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for your constant care over all your creatures. Help us trust in your provision and care for all the animals as you do.

25. Psalm 145:15-16 – God’s Generosity Toward All Living Creatures

This passage speaks to God’s generosity in providing for all living beings. It encourages us to be grateful for the abundance God provides, not just for us, but for every living creature on earth.
Scripture:
“The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.” – Psalm 145:15-16
Prayer:
Father, thank you for your generosity in providing for all creatures. May we reflect your love and provision in how we care for animals and the world around us.

26. Acts 10:13-15 – God’s Call to Broaden Our Perspective

In this passage, God calls Peter to eat what was once considered unclean. This teaches us that God’s love extends beyond boundaries, and we are called to treat all His creation with respect and care.
Scripture:
“Then a voice told him, ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’ ‘Surely not, Lord!’ Peter replied. ‘I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.’ The voice spoke to him a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.'” – Acts 10:13-15
Prayer:
Lord, help us to see all of your creation as clean and worthy of care and respect. Teach us to broaden our hearts and minds to love and care for animals as you love them.

27. Romans 8:19-22 – The Creation Waits in Eager Expectation

This passage highlights how the entire creation, including animals, is waiting for the redemption of God’s children. It is a reminder of how all living beings are intertwined in God’s plan.
Scripture:
“For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.” – Romans 8:19-22
Prayer:
Father, thank you for your plan of redemption for all creation. Help us to care for animals and the earth in anticipation of your renewal of all things.

28. Revelation 5:13 – The Worship of All Creatures

This passage speaks of how all creatures in heaven and on earth will praise God. It reminds us that animals are part of God’s creation and, in some way, participate in glorifying Him.
Scripture:
“Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!'” – Revelation 5:13
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the beauty and wonder of all creatures. May we honor you by respecting and caring for your creation as an act of worship.

29. Proverbs 12:10 – The Righteous Care for Their Animals

This scripture speaks to the righteousness of those who treat their animals with care and kindness. It reminds us that our treatment of animals reflects our character.
Scripture:
“The righteous care for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.” – Proverbs 12:10
Prayer:
Father, help us to be righteous in how we treat animals. May our care for them reflect your love and kindness to all of creation.

30. Zechariah 8:12 – God’s Promise of Peace for All

This verse illustrates God’s promise of peace, not just for people but for all of creation. It’s a reminder that animals are part of His covenant and that He promises peace for them as well.
Scripture:
“The seed will grow well, the vine will yield its fruit, the ground will produce its crops, and the heavens will drop their dew. I will give all these things as an inheritance to the remnant of this people.” – Zechariah 8:12
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for your promise of peace to all creation. May we be good stewards of your world and bring peace to the animals we care for.

Bible Verses About Warning Before Destruction

31. Genesis 1:30 – Provision for All Living Creatures

In the creation story, God gives every living creature food to sustain them. This passage reminds us that animals, like humans, are part of God’s provision for the earth and are provided for through His care.
Scripture:
“And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move along the ground—everything that has the breath of life in it—I give every green plant for food.” – Genesis 1:30
Prayer:
Thank you, Lord, for providing for all your creatures. Help us to recognize the importance of our role in caring for the animals and the world you have entrusted to us.

32. Psalm 36:6 – The Lord’s Protection for Animals

This verse highlights God’s protective nature, not only for humans but also for animals. It reminds us that God cares for the entire creation and keeps it safe under His watchful eye.
Scripture:
“Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep. You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.” – Psalm 36:6
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for your protection over all creatures. May we honor that protection by being mindful stewards and caretakers of the animals you’ve entrusted to us.

33. Proverbs 27:23-27 – Know the State of Your Flocks

This passage teaches the importance of knowing and tending to the needs of our flocks, which can be applied to how we care for the animals in our lives. It encourages us to be diligent and responsible.
Scripture:
“Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations.” – Proverbs 27:23-27
Prayer:
Father, help us to be diligent in caring for the animals we are responsible for. May we never neglect their needs but always be attentive and responsible in our care.

34. Matthew 6:26-34 – Trusting God’s Provision

In this passage, Jesus reminds us that God takes care of all creatures, and we should trust in His provision. The same applies to how we care for animals—trusting God will provide the resources we need to care for them.
Scripture:
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” – Matthew 6:26
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for your constant care for the animals and for us. Help us to trust in your provision as we care for the animals around us.

35. Luke 12:6-7 – God’s Care for the Sparrows

This scripture reminds us that God cares deeply for even the smallest creatures, such as sparrows. His care for animals extends to every part of His creation, no matter how insignificant they may seem.
Scripture:
“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” – Luke 12:6-7
Prayer:
Thank you, Lord, for your care over every creature. Help us to recognize the value of every animal, big or small, and treat them with the care and respect they deserve.

36. Ecclesiastes 3:19-22 – The Fate of Humans and Animals

This passage highlights that humans and animals share a similar fate—both are under God’s sovereignty. It reminds us of the unity of all creation and our shared responsibility to care for it.
Scripture:
“Surely the fate of human beings is like that of the animals; the same fate awaits them both: As one dies, so dies the other. All have the same breath; humans have no advantage over animals.” – Ecclesiastes 3:19
Prayer:
Lord, help us to recognize our shared destiny with the animals. Teach us to care for them with compassion, as they are part of your creation, just like us.

37. Exodus 23:12 – Rest for Animals

God’s command for a day of rest for humans extends to animals as well, reminding us that they, too, need rest and care. This teaches us the importance of allowing animals to rest and care for their well-being.
Scripture:
“Six days do your work, but on the seventh day do not work, so that your ox and your donkey may rest, and the slave born in your household, and the foreigner living among you, may be refreshed.” – Exodus 23:12
Prayer:
Father, thank you for teaching us the importance of rest, not just for us, but for animals as well. Help us to be mindful of their needs and allow them the rest they deserve.

38. 1 Timothy 4:4-5 – All Creation is Good

This passage reminds us that all of creation, including animals, is good and is made holy through God’s word and prayer. It reinforces that animals have intrinsic value and purpose in God’s creation.
Scripture:
“For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.” – 1 Timothy 4:4-5
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for making all of creation good. Help us to honor and care for the animals, seeing them as part of your wonderful creation.

39. Proverbs 15:3 – God Sees All

This scripture reminds us that God sees everything, even the treatment of animals. It calls us to be mindful of how we treat God’s creation, knowing that He sees and cares about it.
Scripture:
“The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.” – Proverbs 15:3
Prayer:
God, thank you for your watchful eye over all creation. Help us to be mindful of how we treat animals, knowing that you see and care about every action.

40. Psalm 50:10-11 – The Lord’s Ownership of All Creatures

This passage reminds us that God owns all the animals and that they are His creation. It encourages us to recognize our role as stewards and caretakers of what belongs to Him.
Scripture:
“For every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine.” – Psalm 50:10-11
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for entrusting us with the care of your creatures. Help us to honor your ownership by being faithful stewards of all animals.

41. Matthew 12:11-12 – Caring for Animals in Need

In this passage, Jesus teaches that it is right to care for an animal that is in need. It highlights our responsibility to show compassion and care for animals, especially when they are suffering.
Scripture:
“He said to them, ‘If any of you has a sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will you not take hold of it and lift it out? How much more valuable is a person than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.'” – Matthew 12:11-12
Prayer:
Lord, help us to act with compassion and care when animals are in need. Teach us to be quick to help those who are suffering and in need of our care.

42. Proverbs 19:17 – Helping the  low-income and Animals

This verse speaks to the blessing of helping those in need, including animals. It teaches us that when we show compassion to those who cannot repay us, including animals, we are honoring God.
Scripture:
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” – Proverbs 19:17
Prayer:
God, help us to show kindness and compassion to those in need, including animals. May we reflect your love and generosity through our actions toward them.

Key Insight

Why does the Bible talk about caring for animals?
The Bible teaches that we are stewards of God’s creation and are responsible for treating animals with care and respect.

How can I care for animals in a biblical way?
By showing compassion, providing for their needs, and ensuring they are treated kindly, as the Bible encourages us to do.

Does God care about animals?
Yes, the Bible reveals that God cares deeply for all His creation, including animals.

Is it wrong to eat animals according to the Bible?
The Bible doesn’t prohibit eating animals but encourages responsible and ethical treatment of them.

What role do animals play in God’s creation?
Animals are part of God’s creation, and we are called to care for them, just as He does.

Can animals be part of God’s plan for humanity?
Yes, animals are part of God’s plan, and we are to live in harmony with them, recognizing our shared role in His creation.

Conclusion

The Bible is clear in its call for us to be responsible stewards of God’s creation, including animals. Through these 40 verses, we see that God cares for all creatures, and we are to show the same care, respect, and compassion towards them.

Whether through providing for their needs, protecting their well-being, or showing mercy and kindness, our responsibility to animals is an integral part of living out our faith. Let us strive to honor God by taking care of the animals He has entrusted to us.