The Point Radio: No Free Lunch |
by Mark Earley |
It’s really true. There is no free lunch. Just like there are no free mortgages....
Click play above to listen.
Here are more ways to be a good financial steward:
“The Anti-Uber Consumer” by Martha Anderson, The Point, 19 September 2006.
“Conscious Consumerism – Intentional Shopping” by Martha Anderson, The Point, 25 May 2007.
Media Awareness Network – Marketing and Consumerism
“How Can I Spend My Money More Wisely?” from ChristianAnswers.net
“Impulsive and Compulsive Spending” by Crown Financial ministries
Well, to be honest, I buy most of our items used, through consignment shops, yard sales and thrift stores. We also receive hand-me-downs. With six children in the family (going on seven), I think it would be irresponsible financially to do otherwise, and dishonoring to my husband, the bread-winner.
I just outfitted for the next baby--furniture, clothes and all--for well under $100. (I'd given everything away in between the last two babies.) We recently bought a bunk bed second hand via Craig's List. I've also picked up other household items from Freecycle. We have joined a food co-op.
Most of the Christian families I know do it this way. Honestly, I have yet to meet a Christian family that spends conspicuously.
I love yard-saling, because I *can* impulse buy without a twinge of guilt. :) It's fun!
Now, there is such a thing as nickle-and-diming yourself to the edge of your means, and I have to watch myself for that. I do like a little consumable treat every now and then, and that I do feel somewhat guilty about. Then there's nothing left to show for the expenditure.
But I don't feel a bit bad about buying myself a nice decorative or personal item second-hand. I think that's fine, even God-pleasing.
Posted by: Susannah | October 27, 2007 at 11:39 AM