green tip #3: reduce.

Houses, cars, entertainment systems, hungry jacks. The more and bigger our products get, so do the demands on the earth.

So do we really need most of the stuff we buy - including all the excess packaging?? Can what we consume be reduced?

Do we need to buy that burger on the way home can we wait and eat what we have at home?

Do 5 people need to drive 5 different cars to and from the same location?

Is it that incredibly important for us to leave our workspace computers on over night?

This is probably the most important tip when it comes to living sustainably - not to mention as a follower of Jesus. Doing all the little things may seem incredibly insignificant, but we all understand the equation [1+1+1+3+1+1+.2+7+1+1 = 17.2] Not only does the earth and others benefit, but how good is it for our souls? Definatley not out of line with what Jesus says about storing up treasures on earth (Matt 5:19-21)

• less waste.
• less pollution.
• lower carbon emissions.
• save our beloved dollar ;)
  

A few months ago I read a great book - Serve God, Save the Planet. It's about a guy who had a fantastic life and great job as the chief of medical staff in a large hospital. He was living the American dream, until through his patients he began to suspect the earth and it's inhabitants were in deep trouble. Him and his family turned to scriptural lessons or personal responsibility, simplicity and stewardship and since then sold their big home, gave away more than half of what they owned an adopted green principals for living. In the book Matthew Sleeth (the doctor) shares the absolute joy of adopting a healthier, less materialistic lifestyle which led to stronger relationships and a richer spiritual life. Brilliant book!

www.servegodsavetheplanet.org