July 2017


Do you wish to give more? Christians enjoy giving. Jesus mentioned giving multiple times. One of the most well know may be Luke 6:38, "Give and it will be given unto you..." Christians enjoy giving. In 2014 alone religious organizations received $114 billion in donations. If all Christians in the USA gave just 10 percent yearly, we could eliminate hunger, illiteracy, and provide clean water worldwide in about 5 years according to Relevant Magazine.*

Many Christians wish they could contribute more to good causes. In fact, you can contribute thousands more! How? By spending your money ethically. Every dollar you spend for daily needs can support good causes. Americans spend about two-thirds of their income on living. That is potentially tens of thousands that you can use to support good causes. 1 Cor. 10:31 says "Whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." WEB. I think this extends to every area of life including the purchases we make.

We have all heard tragic stories of child labor, sweat shops, and environmentally damaging industrial practices that result in many of the products we buy. It is difficult to know which goods were made by unethical means. But it is often easy to know which were made by ethical means or contribute to ethical practices. One way is to look for Organic or Fair-Trade labels. This can be expensive, but it does not have to be. The grocery chain Aldi is moving towards selling nearly all organic items. The best part is that their prices are usually equal to or better than Wal-Mart! Other stores are making efforts to offer fair-trade and organic options too. Buying organic is best for the environment and reduces your exposure to many harsh chemicals. Check out the dirty dozen at www.ewg.org - a list of produce that are best purchased organic. Shopping local at farmers markets and roadside stands is good too, and the produce is often fresher.

Shopping for second hand goods at places like Goodwill, eBay, or a church thrift store keep those items out of the landfill, saves you money, and benefits the needy. Extend the life of electronics, you don’t need the latest upgrade. Buy refurbished when possible. Repair or sell for refurbishment instead of recycling. If an item must be recycled, take it to a place that is certified to practice legal recycling. Ones in this area include Best Buy and Staples.

Next time you make a purchase, do a little research to see which option is more ethical. For example, look for the best gas mileage vehicle or an Energy Star rated appliance. Avoid buying disposable items and look for reusable options. Every dollar we spend makes a statement about what we believe! Shopping ethically does not have to be hard. Start small with one area, such as food, and focus there. Pray that God will give you wisdom to bring him glory in every area of your life!

____________________

By David F. Garner


Sources:
*http://archives.relevantmagazine.com/god/church/what-would-happen-if-church-tithed.


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