Simple Living

Our Sunday evening group is doing a series on Biblical Economics - The Christian and his money.  I stumbled upon this list by Richard Foster .  The list is from his book A Celebration of Discipline.  When we have a contented heart that does not need to seek "stuff" to satisfy, our outward life would be governed by several  biblical principles.  Someone whose life is being governed by a contented heart would have the following characteristics in regards to material possessions:

1.       Buy things for their usefulness rather than their status.

2.       Reject anything that is producing an addiction in you.

3.       Develop a habit of giving things away.

4.       Refuse to be propagandized by the custodians of modern gadgetry.

5.       Learn to enjoy things without owning them.

6.       Develop a deeper appreciation for the creation.

7.       Look with a healthy skepticism at all "buy now, pay later" schemes.

8.      Obey Jesus' instructions about plain, honest speech.

9.       Reject anything that breeds the oppression of others.

10.   Shun anything that distracts you from seeking first the kingdom of God.

I believe we can all benefit from examining our lives and comparing ourselves to this list.  Many people put themselves in bondage due to a lack of balance in these areas.  May God help you and I to walk in financial liberty!