Living Simply, Loving FullySample

Challenge #1: Consume compassionately.

We live in a time of Amazon Prime and one-click purchases. Because everything we could ever want is at our fingertips, it’s so easy to fall into the lie that our wants are actually our needs. It’s even easier to make quick and mindless purchases when we see the word “sale” or “clearance” flash before our eyes. Who wants to miss out on a great deal?

But the truth is, our spending and buying habits have more impact than we know. Sometimes, we can get into habits of buying more and more to band-aid something we are trying not to feel. Other times, we forget the implications of our purchases. We forget to ask ourselves who is being impacted by what we buy. How soon will it go to waste? Is this purchase practicing good stewardship?

The world’s population throws out over 2 billion tonnes of household waste a year. That is equivalent to more than 60 tonnes of waste every second! What does this say about our consumption habits?

In Hebrews 13:5, our call to simple living as Christ-followers is confirmed as the author compels us to keep from the love of money and be content with what we’re given. 

As a way of challenging your consumption habits, try asking yourself these four questions when thinking about buying a new item:

1. Is this something I need to purchase?
2. Can I buy it second-hand?
3. Can I find an ethical source?
4. Is this something I can borrow from someone else?

As we get into a rhythm of asking ourselves these questions, we will find our hearts rewire. We will find that our habits change, and will begin to, out of habit, consume compassionately. 

Pray:

Jesus, thank You that in You, I have everything I need. Though I recognize there is a human need for consumption, I confess that my habits are not always compassionate. I pray that You would help reorient my heart and my mind to be content with what You have given me. Help me to see the implications of my spending habits and compel me to think deeply about how and where I spend my resources. Thank You for everything You have given me. You are good. Amen.