No Free Lunch

In microeconomics, the scarcity principle (“No-Free-Lunch Principle”) simply implies that although we have boundless needs and wants, the resources available to use are limited. Consequently, having more of one thing means having less of another (opportunity cost). As a result, no solution therefore offers a 'short cut'.

We live in a world of finite time and resources. In Ephesians 5: 15-17, God calls us to make the most of every opportunity. This is a call to ‘intentionality’ and ‘purpose’ in all that we do. Understanding the economic principle behind “no free lunch” can help us be better stewards of all of our resources, and the choices we make between competing alternatives for our time, talent, and money.

What is important for us to understand is that each and every choice involves a cost. All choices involve costs, every single one. Nothing is free, nothing is without sacrifice. There is no free lunch.

As Christians, we must steward all of our resources with precision and diligence. This is what Ephesians 5: 15-17 encourages us to do – to be careful how we live, and make the most of competing opportunities. We do not have the luxury of whimsy. To be salt and light as God has called us, we must realize that even the small daily decisions that seem easy or trivial require thoughtfulness and grace.

I pray that each of us remembers this concept when thinking through our daily choices, and also that we seek God’s guidance, presence, and wisdom in all that we do.