Are you preoccupied with self-reliance, your own wealth, and possessions Consumerism has canonized covetousness in our culture. It ever fosters a desire for more. Jesus says to take care to guard against covetousness. It pervades everything we do—not just the accumulation of things but also of knowledge. We are never delighting in what we have, know, or experience, but always hungering for more.

What difference does consumerism make in our lives? People become commodities. Work becomes futility, changing from a gift from God into just a means for having more. Moreover, joy becomes elusive as contentment slips away.

Why is consumerism so tempting? Because it offers security in our possessions. We believe that the more we have, the safer and more secure we are from uncertainty and tragedy, and we are in control of those. The irony is that consumerism actually steals our peace all while promising independence and freedom.

What is it about the gospel that would curb this longing for consumerism in our hearts? It shows us where our identity and security rests. It shows us how our lives consist of being united with Christ, as we rest in his love, practice contentment in the fulfillment of his indwelling Spirit, and accept our dependence on him.