In a survey of mall shoppers published in the Wall Street Journal only 25% of those interviewed were shopping for a specific item. About 53% of grocery and 47% of hardware store purchases are 'spur of the moment'. 93% of American teen-age girls reported store-hopping as their favorite activity. The average American will spend approximately one entire year of his or her life watching TV commercials. The message saturates our culture: 'acquire more'. 'Spend more'.

The 'consumer age' has left us restless and dissatisfied. Much of what we acquire soon ends up on the junk heap or is left to clutter up our lives. We are restless because we are led to believe that we need to acquire more to be happier. We are reluctant when it comes to making important commitments because we are conditioned to believe that something 'new' and 'improved' is coming our way. We are always looking to keep our options open. In the meanwhile life slips by.

We need to shift from an 'acquisition' to a 'stewardship' mode of living. We are not here to get. We are here to steward what God has given. How can we use the time, talent and resources we have been given in a way that honors the One who has given them to us? What relationships have been entrusted to us? What do we truly feel passionate about? What compelling vision directs our life choices? A 'stewardship' view of life could have far-reaching effects on our lives and the planet as a whole. Don't surrender to the myths of the latest advertisement campaign. Don't give in to the 'impulse' purchase. As I heard someone say, "Don't try to keep up with the Jones's. Bring them down to your level."

Jesus said, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." (Luke 12:15).

Adopt a stewardship mentality. Question your drive for acquisition. De-clutter your life of that which numbs, chokes, hinders or distracts you. Hold fast to the real God-given treasures of life and utilize them to enrich the lives of those around you.

Out of the 'excess' lane and into the 'express' lane of purpose-driven living,