Understanding Christian Sustainability

Simply put, sustainability is about meeting the needs of today's people without compromising the ability of future generations to be able to meet their own needs. As Christians, we're called to take care of our environment and those living in the world around us. This isn't a very complex concept, but it is a very important one.

There are a lot of different things that you can do to help your planet and fellow humankind here, including:

• Lower your consumption by not buying things you don't need. When you are purchasing products, make sure that they are more durable, easy to fix, don't pollute the environment, are energy-efficient, and functional.
• Walk or use public transportation instead of driving your car all of the time.
• Don't use paper towels for everything! Use cloth napkins for meals and old washcloths for cleaning.
• Look for new ways to reuse household items you're considering getting rid of. Whether you upcycle items or join Freecycle (a group of people who give items they no longer need but that are still usable to other people), don't just send items to the landfill.
• Consider planting a garden. Not only is this a frugal way of living, but it's also good for the environment. Don't worry that you're taking away from local farmers because there will still be plenty of folks buying their produce, as well as items you won't be able to grow yourself and so you'll need to buy from them.
• Find ways to make more things yourself or do without them. This isn't just fun and frugal but it's also healthier too.
• Switch to simple cleaning solutions. The one brand that I really like is Shaklee because they don't contain all kinds of nasty chemicals that are really bad for your health - although you'll hear people say the chemicals are what makes the environment clean, they're actually what hurt the environment.
• Shop locally when possible because it will help your local economy but you'll also eat healthier foods.

There's also one last thing that you're probably already doing: Recycle! It's really easy, doesn't even take any thought once you're in the habit. Plus, I think that it's safe to say that God recycles... Do you?

Now you can remind people about the importance of Christian sustainability every day simply by wearing this T-shirt, no words necessary!

This blog is part of a series I'm writing, entitled...

"A Course in Simple Living"

Healthy Eating on a Budget

Although you may not think so, healthy eating on a low budget really is possible. However, you do need to take some time to think and plan ahead with tips like these.

Healthy Eating on a Budget Tip #1: 

Dust off Your Spice Rack  

Use a spice rack to give your food more flavor. It's easy to buy spices in bulk at very reasonable prices then simply put them into bottles on your spice rack. If you don't already have one, buy one!

(Reviewed Here)

Healthy Eating on a Budget Tip #2: 

Stock up on Sale Items You Use Frequently 

When items are sale, stock up! This is especially true for shelf-stable items such as chicken broth, beans, etc. It's also true for items that can be frozen and used later (e.g. meats). You can then use these items to plan your meals around.

Healthy Eating on a Budget Tip #3: 

Email Manufacturers to Score More Coupons 

Email manufacturers of your favorite products and ask for coupons. This healthy eating on budget tip is as easy as going to the company's website and finding their "Contact Us" section and either emailing them or signing up for their newsletter (set up a separate account if you have to, it's worth it)!

Healthy Eating on a Budget Tip #4:

Look at the Front of the Store for Sales 

Look in the front of your favorite store for coupons and deals that allow for healthy eating on a budget for families. At Whole Foods Market, you'll find booklets when you enter the store. These are full of recipes and coupons that you should browse through before you start shopping to see if there's a coupon for something you need to buy.