If we think of the word economy, and use it in the sense of efficient use of resources, maybe the bad economy we're looking at today will be helpful. I'm not making light of those who will lose their jobs, or their homes. It's serious business, and it's a symptom of how we buy. Richard Foster has given some good advice on such things. I post it here as much to remind me as to remind others. (and maybe a little bit because I like the word shun.)
From Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline.
1.Buy things for their usefulness rather than their status.
2. Reject anything that is producing an addiction in you.
3. Learn to give things away
4. Refuse to be propagandized by the custodians of modern gadgetry.
5. Learn to enjoy things without owning them.
6. Look at all buy now, pay later schemes with healthy skepticism.
7. Develop a deeper appreciation for the creation
8. Use plain, honest speech.
9. Reject anything that will breed the oppression of others.
10. Shun whatever will distract you from the Kingdom of God.
