We live in a consumer driven world where society praises us for having a lot of stuff and teaches us that success is defined through cars, clothes, money and possessions. It’s difficult to be content when we are constantly bombarded with the need to have the newest toy or a certain financial status. So, how do we learn to live in a consumer driven world?
1. Learn to be content with what we have right now.
“If we can’t learn to be content with what we’ve been given right now, how will we be content when we have more?”
I’ll be honest. I don’t have everything I want, but I definitely have everything I need – a beautiful home, clothes on my back, food in my tummy, and the list could go on.
When we learn to be thankful with the things God has given us, it frees up our mental (and even spiritual) focus. In the end, if our primary goal is to pursue money and stuff, we will be left feeling hollow and empty.
2. Realize that money and possessions are not evil.
We’ve all heard the phrase “money is the root of all evil.” But the truth is, money and possessions aren’t evil! I Timothy 6:10 says, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” See what the Bible says – the love of money is the root of all evil.
Money is part of our daily life and we need it to live. It’s also a powerful tool that can be used to feed the needy, care for the orphans and widows and serve others. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with having money in the bank, a nice car or fun toys! But when money and possessions have first place in our life, we are heading down a path that won’t end well.
3. Find fulfillment in people instead of possessions.
Other than my family, my favorite people to hang out with are the teenagers at my church! I can walk into church after having a bad day and my stress fades from my mind. Those “things” that I had been worrying about less than an hour earlier aren’t even a forethought and all I can focus on is loving those students. (In my opinion, that’s what service should look like! You should love the area you serve in.)
If you don’t have an area of service, find one! Serve the needy or elderly, love on or encourage someone who’s hurting, or take those who are less fortunate out for a day of fun. There are a gazillion ways to serve. Find something you’re passionate about and go from there!
“When we begin to put the needs of others above ourselves, our desire for money and possessions will fade away.”
These are just three of my tips to learn how to live in a consumer driven world. Now it’s your turn!
How have you learned to live in a consumer driven world?
This was very inspirational and just what I needed for today. Thank you for posting this!!!!
That’s very encouraging to hear Natalie! Thanks for stopping by!
Thanks for clarifying that often misquoted scripture and pointing out what the Bible does say in 1st Timothy. Great post!
Thanks for the kind encouragement, Jeanine!