New Term

Spiritually intentional consumerism.
Pastor Brad shared it several times in his message yesterday. The first time it was like, what is that? Let's take a look at each word individually then we can put them together and see exactly what he meant.
spir·i·tu·al adj.

1. Of, relating to, consisting of, or having the nature of spirit; not tangible or material.

2. Of, concerned with, or affecting the soul.

3. Of, from, or relating to God.

4. Of or belonging to a church or religion; sacred.

5. Relating to or having the nature of spirits or a spirit; supernatural.

in·ten·tion·al adj.
1. Done deliberately; intended

con·sum·er·ism n.

1. The movement seeking to protect and inform consumers by requiring such practices as honest packaging and advertising, product guarantees, and improved safety standards.

2. The theory that a progressively greater consumption of goods is economically beneficial.

3. Attachment to materialistic values or possessions

Spiritually intentional consumerism: (my definition) To deliberately align yourself while consuming goods so that you affect those around you in spiritual things.

Pastor Brad shared practical ways to do this. When you shop, go to the same store, use the same cashier. Get to know their name, look them in the eye and use their name every time you see them. Use the same gas station, get to know all the tellers names. When you go to the gym, try and go at the same time, use the same locker. Get to know those around you. When you lock eyes with someone, conscientiously think 'this person matters to God.'

So often we speed through our daily grind that we ignore all those that are around us. The cashier is having a bad day, your smile could brighten it. The person in the gym could use some encouragement. Your co-worker could use a confidential ear to sort through some issues she is facing. The seeds you plant today could bear fruit in the near future. Thinking through this I have to agree, we can walk through life unapproachable in our own routines or we can deliberately reach out to others, engaging in life together. The rewards could be eternal.

Proverbs 14:31
He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.

1 Peter 3:8
Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.