Sustainability, fair-trade, circular economy, toxic-free, slow fashion are just some buzz words that come to mind when thinking about conscious consumerism.
Medium.com defines a conscious consumer as, “An agent of change who considers the social, environmental, ecological, and political impact of their “buycott” and boycott actions.”
They further explain, “To live a balanced life, we must strive to align our intentions, thoughts, words and actions.”
Whilst many people strive to live this way, regardless of their belief system, I have been pondering over the idea that as followers of Christ we should be leading the way and setting a Godly example.
Wise Stewards
There are several scriptures in the Bible that talk to us about being responsible managers of the resources God gives us. God wants us to be good stewards of our resources and he says that if he can trust us with little, then he can trust us with much as seen in the parable found in Matthew chapter 25, verse 11.
“His Master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You were faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Share your master’s joy!”
Becoming wise stewards in life is a process and requiresseeking God’s advice and wisdomwhich may require a shift in our thinking.
Change our minds
Romans chapter 12 verse 2 states:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is- his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
This can be applied to many different areas of our lives, but I do believe it is relevant to conscious consumerism.
Just because the world may be living a certain way doesn’t mean we should follow suit.
I must admit, sometimes I can start to feel a little overwhelmed. How can I still live in the world but not be of it from a consumer point of view? Do I abandon all the western ways and go live on a big commune where we grow and make everything? I would love to live 100% plastic-free, toxin-free, eat only organic, grow all my own veges and be able to afford artisan-quality products. And there was a time where I was starting to feel quite burdened by it all. But then I felt God say to me, “Do the best with what you have, with your resources, time and finances. Seek my will in everything and be filled with joy and peace.”
Staying curious
For me it has been about becoming more conscious of my every day practices and really thinking about the choices I am making. I started to become curious and I started to ask some questions. And it is all a work in progress.
What am I spending my money on? Am I making wise decisions? What exactly am I buying, and what are the effects?Can I make some adjustments?
Often sustainable, fair-trade, organic, grain fed food and other items are much more expensive and many of us can’t afford to live like this. Perhaps it’s just making some small changes where we can. For my family this has meant eating less meat but better quality. Ensuring the coffee we buy is sustainably sourced and the growers are paid a living wage. And really thinking before buying. Is this item well made? Will I even like it or use it a month from now? Do we really need another appliance? Where does all the stuff go? Can I do a little better with composting?
Set our minds on things above
Colossians chapter 3, verse 2says, “Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things.”
Ultimately it is our spiritual lives we should be most concerned about and thinking about and growing and developing.
I do believe while we make our spiritual lives the priority, it will have a flow on affect to every area of our life. But we aren’t to obsess over everything and worry about things!
In Matthew chapter 6, verses 25-34, Jesus tells us not worry about our lives.
Verses 31-33 say:
“So do not worry, saying what shall we eat? Or what shall we drink, or what shall we wear… your heavenly father knows that you need them.But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Jo Fuller lives on the beautiful Sunshine Coast with her husband and young family. Jo has degrees in journalism and education and loves to read and write and spend time with her family.