In this chapter, God's active participation is the main theme. Consider the following list of active verbs.
God formed man, planted a garden, caused life to flourish, took the man, placed him in the garden, placed him in charge, commanded the man, gave the man dominion in naming, and gave a partner to help.
God is active every step of the way. So what can the man claim as his alone? Nothing. Like Adam, we owe everything to God. We commit foolish treason to think otherwise. God is active in our story. God gave us all we have and brought us into a relationship with Him. So why do we try to hold on to what is not ours?
Back to the story, God gave Adam purpose and dominion. Man's authority does not come from an internal source but an external God. So, for Israel, as they were at the end of their time in the wilderness, they were to understand that God has been active in their story.
He gave them the land they were about to take. They will succeed because God has given them dominion over the land. It is not by their power, but God's, that this will be accomplished. Will they trust God to accomplish what He has promised?
God has also given us dominion over the world.
Will we use it wisely? Do we trust God to guide us throughout our day? Remember, even our day belongs to the Lord. Where is He active in your story?