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The Seven Deadly Sins of Personal Finance

Here’s an engaging (and entertaining) look at the seven deadly sins of personal finance from award-winning financial blogger Len Penzo. In addition to linking these sins to personal finance, Penzo suggests “penance” for the repentant in the form of additional articles on financial management. (Photo by Muffet used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!)

Life Post- Microwave

Just Living Blog
Is a microwave really a necessity or simply a nice thing to have? Is it a want or a need? Our blogger examines the issue after one month post-microwave. Hint: Things are still cooking right along! Photo by JoshuaDavisPhotography used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!)

Can Stewardship be More Inviting?

Because Americans are comfortable keeping faith and money separate, whenever we start a conversation about stewardship by talking about money or financial need, we immediately arouse hostility. All stewardship talk which begins with money starts at the wrong place. The place to begin meaningful stewardship conversation is with the concept of freedom. (Photo (c) 2006 Jgroup, via bigstock.com.)

Barefootin’

Is it possible to let one’s feet do the talking when it comes to justice and equity? Or is going barefoot for a day merely a form of “slacktivism”? (Photo by pineapple9995 used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!)

“Staying Put” Day

Our blogger explores how a “Buy No Gas” Challenge leads to larger questions of consumption and entitlement. Her conclusion? Old habits die hard, and getting out one’s walking shoes is a good response. (Photo by Jay Cuthrell used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!)

Zacchaeus, Patron Saint for Stewards

When Zacchaeus encountered Jesus, he did not promise to read scripture more faithfully nor to attend the synagogue more regularly. On this occasion he was not pledging his time or his talent to the programmatic mission of the faith community. Worthy as those are — and necessary for the life of the people of God — this visit was about something else.

Consumerism Study Guides and Lesson Plans

Consumerism is arguably the dominant cultural force in the United States, but our Christian faith challenges consumerism’s assumptions. Here are six study guides — on topics ranging from “Stuff Love,” “Mastering Mammon” and “Discovering Your True Identity” — to help you explore. (Photo by Pandah, used by Creative Commons License. Thanks!)

Shopping: Drug of Choice for the Masses?

‘JUST LIVING’ Blog
Does shopping really make everything better? Is our consumer economy sustainable? You be the judge and weigh in with your experiences and opinions.

Dis-attachment: Lessons from a 20 pound Puppy with Separation Anxiety

A cosmic canine caper causes our blogger to rethink her attachment to possessions. Read on to find out how the dog ate, among other things, the couch, a shoe, clothes, stuffed animals, and organic cotton sheets.

What to do with more time than money? Cultivate Relationships

‘Just Living’ Blog
Like gardens, relationships bloom when well-tended. When you have the gift of more time than money, be sure you put that time to good use cultivating valued relationships with family, friends, and community.